Voted Best of Omaha Eight Years Running
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FROM THE EDITOR | DAISY HUTZELL-RODMAN
Victory tastes as sweet as honey. For many years, Omaha Magazine’s iconic yellow-and-black winner plaques and window clings have graced the doors and front windows of local businesses, letting their customers know with a sunny symbol that they are stepping into someplace that Omahans believe to be the best.
Bee-ing the best is what this issue is all about. Within this edition, you’ll find images on the section openers that reflect the theme of bees, and you’ll see all sorts of fun plays on the color combination of yellow and black.
You’ll also find information about the city from the three-plus decades that we have held the Best of Omaha contest—how the city has changed, how homes have changed, how the nightlife scene has expanded, and more.
Omaha Magazine staffers know that Omaha is the best city to live in, and the citizens of our great town know it, also. Tens of thousands of people came out to vote on their favorite places around the area—from restaurants, to hair salons, to fitness clubs, to auto dealerships, and so much more. This community engagement is astounding; Omahans support one another through their businesses, and the results can be seen in this book.
The Best of Omaha contest started 33 years ago as a way for the staff to have some fun and engage the community, and it has become the premier “best of” contest in the area. In fact, publisher Todd Lemke has given talks to other city publications about how to run a successful, engaging “best of” contest in their cities.
It doesn’t happen alone. As our company motto states: It’s About All of Us. This contest couldn’t happen without the voters who take the time out of their busy schedules to fill out ballots, without those who keep the voting honest, without those who calculate the votes, without the dedicated team here at Omaha Publications who put this book together and contact each of the winners, and more.
Victory is sweet, and we at Omaha Publications thank everyone who took the time to vote. We also extend a heartfelt congratulations to those who won in this year’s contest. The following pages reflect the results of votes in more than 300 categories, and serve as a fantastic guidebook for discovering new places around the city.
BEST OF OMAHA 2025
EDITORIAL
Editor-in-Chief
KIM CARPENTER
Interim
Editor-in-Chief & Content Studios Omaha Managing Editor
DAISY HUTZELL-RODMAN
Associate Editor & Staff Writer
NATALIE VELOSO
Assignment Editor & Staff Writer
CLAUDIA MOOMEY
Content Creator
BELLA Mc ATEE
Contributing Writers
TAMSEN BUTLER · DWAIN HEBDA
SARA LOCKE · KARA SCHWEISS HAL SENAL
CREATIVE
Creative Director
RACHEL BIRDSALL
Senior Graphic Designer
RENEE LUDWICK
Graphic Designer II
NICKIE ROBINSON
Graphic Designer I
JOEY WINTON
Photo Editor
SARAH LEMKE
Food Stylist
SARAH JANE HUNT
SALES DEPARTMENT
Executive Vice President
Sales & Marketing
GIL COHEN
Top Level Revenue Generator
MICHELLE SCHRAGE
Branding Specialists
DAWN DENNIS · GEORGE IDELMAN
Contributing Branding Specialists
GREG BRUNS · TIM McCORMACK
FRANCINE FLEGG
Publisher’s Assistant & OmahaHome Editor Emerita
SANDY MATSON
Senior Sales Coordinator
ALICIA HOLLINS
Sales Coordinator
SANDI Mc CORMACK
OPERATIONS
Business Manager
KYLE FISHER
Ad Traffic Manager
DAVID TROUBA
Digital Manager
LUIS DE LA TOBA
Distribution Manager
DAMIAN INGERSOLL
EXECUTIVE
Executive Publisher TODD LEMKE
Associate Publisher
BILL SITZMANN
F rom The e di T or Best of Omaha’s 33rd Anniversary
Your B es T o F o maha Team Publisher and Sponsor Letters
C ongra T ula T ions ! Letters from Civic Leaders
B es T o F o maha The Original, Largest, and Most-Trusted Contest in the Metro
n o T F unn Y Best Day of My Life
s T ories o F o maha’s B es T Sponsored Winner Profiles
d ining
Famil Y h ealT h & B eau TY h ousehold n igh T li F e r e T ail s ervi C es
Transpor T a T ion
Patrick Combs PRESIDENT/CEO WALNUT MEDIA
The entire team at Walnut Media and Boomer Radio offer our congratulations to all the 2025 Best of Omaha winners. We continue to be amazed at the level of participation from the community to recognize the outstanding local businesses and organizations in a wide range of categories.
Best of Omaha has positioned itself as one of the premier business recognition programs in the country and winning is a definite badge of honor for businesses that receive the award.
We are proud of the small part we play in getting the word out about voting and announcing the winners to the community at large.
Congratulations to this year ’s winners!
Omaha celebrates the local businesses that make the area so unique. Your votes are part of the amazing support these businesses receive from our community. The Best of Omaha puts a spotlight on new places to try and celebrates your favorite local businesses.
As Omaha’s News Leader, KETV is committed to serving our community. We’re proud to be a part of Omaha Magazine’s Best of Omaha. It’s another way KETV provides support to local businesses, highlighting their great work and the positive impact they have on the Omaha area. From the nominees to the winners, thanks for making Omaha such a unique and fun place to live.
Voter engagement is key.
Best of Omaha wouldn’t be relevant without its voters —tens of thousands of folks who take the time to share their votes. It’s not easy or quick to vote in Best of Omaha by design. First, you need to register to vote. Then, you wait for a voting link to be sent while we verify your email address. Voters spend an average of 20 minutes online selecting their choices, in an average of 23 categories. So, thank you, voters, for your time and your votes. You truly make a difference in dozens of businesses’ reputations.
Part of what makes the Best of Omaha contest unique is we give voters an opportunity to leave comments about the voting site or individual businesses. And thousands of you take the time to share comments. An example of these comments is below, and more are spread throughout the results in this book. Again, thank you, voters, for your feedback. We’re listening!
SMOKIN BARREL BBQ IS LITERALLY A BBQ DREAM COME TRUE. THAT BRISKET IS LIFE CHANGING.
-VOTER #294955
DIRECTOR
Each year, Oxford University Press chooses the Word of the Year; a word or expression that describes the mood, culture, or spirit of the time.
Omaha’s Word of the Year must be “momentum”! We see it all around us.
Recently, I received this message from a first-time visitor, “It was our first visit to Omaha and it exceeded our expectations, packed with amenities you’d expect in a much larger city. We’re already planning to come back and we’ll make sure to carve out more time to explore and enjoy everything Omaha has to offer ”
Whether you are a resident or visitor, Omaha Magazine’s Best of Omaha is a trusted guide to our favorite businesses, events, and services, which contribute to the momentum of our great city.
Thank you Omaha Magazine and congratulations to the 2025 Best of Omaha winners.
On behalf of the Greater Omaha Chamber, I would like to say congratulations to this year’s recipients of Best of Omaha. There is so much happening in Omaha in 2025, and you can take pride that your organization is helping to drive our great city forward.
As the Greater Omaha Chamber president and CEO, I have the honor of getting to know our member businesses day in and day out. I’m excited to see the list of this year’s recipients, as it always reveals the best in Omaha. Every organization listed is dedicated to serving our community and truly represents the best of Omaha. It’s not easy to make an impact, but your success encourages others to work that much harder, so that they may one day make this prestigious list.
Again, I would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations. Be sure to display this award prominently—for you have accomplished a remarkable feat!
Congratulations to those being featured on the 2025 Best of Omaha list!
Business is an important part of Omaha’s thriving tourism industry. The city continues to attract more out-of-town visitors each year, and those visitors are spending more while they are here. In fact, last year the city welcomed more than 14 million visitors, who spent $1.6 billion dining in our restaurants, exploring our renowned attractions, shopping in our boutiques, and staying in our hotels.
Businesses like those listed play a crucial role in supporting and growing our community’s tourism economy, creating jobs for our friends, families, and neighbors while strengthening our local tax base.
From all of us at Visit Omaha, the city’s official tourism authority, thank you to each business for enhancing our city’s appeal as a destination.
Congratulations once again to each Best of winner on this honor. We wish you continued success.
Angi Burmeister
CHAIRMAN
SARPY COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
It is a privilege to congratulate the 2025 Best of Omaha winners.
Many of the metro’s favorite places are located in Sarpy County. We’re proud that Sarpy County is home to a long list of vibrant businesses and unique experiences. Best of Omaha recognizes these businesses that support our communities on a daily basis.
Sarpy County is Nebraska’s fastest-growing county, and we welcome economic opportunity. The county and its five cities— Bellevue, Gretna, Papillion, La Vista, and Springfield—all prioritize infrastructure and public safety. It’s these investments that help make us an attractive and special community.
We appreciate the hard work and dedication of the owners and staff of businesses, restaurants, sports teams, entertainment venues, and others who call Sarpy County home. We also recognize the residents and visitors who welcome them with open arms and support their passions. Together, we make Sarpy County a great place to live, work, and play.
On behalf of the Sarpy County Board, congratulations to the winners. Thank you for your amazing contribution to our community. We look forward to your continued success.
STORY BY TODD LEMKE
Best of Omaha was designed and implemented in 1992 as a true recognition award program. It consisted of paper ballots with 30 voting categories, and no advertisements or suggested choices were allowed—just blanks for answers to be handwritten . Tallying votes meant hours and hours of deciphering others’ handwriting.
Then in 1998, my brother, Tyler Lemke, came into the business and said, ‘Todd, this contest could be so much more…We could have people vote online. We could give banners and door stickers to every business voted a winner. We could have the largest, most significant sampling of Omahans’ opinions on hundreds of business types. This could be big.’
Boom! Tyler’s visionary ideas made this contest explode. However, the core principle of keeping this contest as a true recognition program adds legitimacy to BoO and still guides us on everything we do.
Fast forward to 2025, 33 years later. Omaha has several wanna-be “Best” contests today, but there’s truly no comparison of their contests to ours. Best of Omaha continues to be, by far, the largest opinion poll in the city, with more than 290,000 (and growing) verified registered emails, and typically 30-40% of them voting each year.
We are also the most legitimate “Best” contest in the metro, thanks in part to our proprietary voting system built by the brightest voting system minds in the U.S.
So, what is it we do differently to keep our promotional contest legitimate?
• All email addresses are verified prior to voting.
• Only one ballot per voter is issued.
• A minimum of five categories must be voted on for the ballot to count.
• No advertising is allowed on the ballot.
• No pull-down menus of choices are used on the ballot.
Other contests have no verification of email addresses. They allow people to vote daily, and for just one business. They allow advertising on the ballot and/or provide pull-down menus of their advertisers to choose from.
Voters know the difference and respect Best of Omaha’s voting system for creating a true recognition award contest.
So, feel good about your votes, and know you are truly making a difference in dozens of businesses’ bottom line. Your vote does matter at Best of Omaha!
Be st of Omaha winners provide exemplary services and solutions from the best place to fuel up with morning coffee to the best place for beauty treatments and more. The following paid profiles give insight to a variety of local businesses, all of which were voted by the public as a Best of Omaha winner.
Our trained sales associates take the guesswork out of finding the best skin, hair and makeup products with expert recommendations for your unique needs. With over 350 brands and 15,000 products, we offer personalized consultations to help you craft the best skin care regimen.
Board-certified dermatologists Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger help you address any skin concern with personalized recommendations tailored to your unique needs. With expertise in treating conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, acne, and skin cancer, as well as cosmetic treatments such as BOTOX®, JUVEDERM® and HALO® laser skin resurfacing, they’ll take an innovative approach to your needs, so you can feel and look your best.
Schlessinger MD is under the direction of board-certified dermatologists, Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger and has won the Best of Omaha for 14 consecutive years
F OUNDED IN 1993 by Dr. Joel Schlessinger, a boardcertified dermatologist and Mohs micrographic surgeon, Schlessinger MD is Nebraska’s leading dermatology and clinical research practice. Now Dr. Schlessinger is delighted to be joined by his son, Dr. Daniel Schlessinger, also a boardcertified dermatologist, who received training from prestigious institutions including Northwestern University, Harvard, and Barnes-Jewish Hospital / Washington University in St. Louis, along with a dual-accredited fellowship in Mohs micrographic surgery and cosmetic dermatologic surgery at Northwestern.
Schlessinger MD, with over 1,300 five-star reviews on
Google, focuses on solutionoriented treatments utilizing the latest advancements and technology. Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger, alongside their two board-certified physician assistants, Jackie Gaffney and Shea Perillo, and other medical staff strive to provide exceptional care to each and every patient.
Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger are two of fewer than 20 dermatologic surgeons to ever be awarded the prestigious Iron Surgeon Award for their cosmetic work by the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery and the only father-son team to ever be selected for this special honor. Additionally, Dr. Daniel Schlessinger is the youngest
dermatologist to ever be recognized as an Iron Surgeon.
Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger personally perform every injectable treatment, such as BOTOX® and fillers, to ensure their patients are in the best possible hands.
In 1999, Dr. Joel Schlessinger founded LovelySkin.com as an extension of the dermatology practice to deliver dermatologist-quality skin care to patients and customers around the world.
In addition to LovelySkin’s award-winning online presence, the brick and mortar retail store, located near Oak View Mall, offers a personal shopping experience with expertly trained sales professionals.
SchlessingerMD.com
Over the past 30 years, Schlessinger MD has developed into an award winning medical practice, an advanced clinical research facility, and a luxury med spa. At the heart of the practice is a passion for providing their patients with the best experience possible and solution-oriented results. Book your next skin check with Schlessinger MD by calling or book online at SchlessingerMD. com/BookOnline.
Schlessinger MD is under the direction of board-certified dermatologists, Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger and has won the Best Cosmetic Surgeon for 26 years in a row
R. JOEL SCHLESSINGER is a world-renowned boardcertified dermatologist and Mohs micrographic surgeon, as well as cosmetic surgeon, who has been profiled in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and other national publications. Together, Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger are continuously recognized as NewBeauty Verified Expert Injectors, Top Doctors and RealSelf Verified Doctors and have been featured in publications such as New Beauty Magazine, Vogue and Allure
The Schlessinger MD practice, with over 1,300 five-star reviews on Google, offers the latest cosmetic surgery procedures, including BOTOX®, a
variety of hyaluronic acid dermal fillers, MOXI® laser, HALO® laser resurfacing, IPL & BBL® HEROic photofacial laser treatments, fat reduction treatments such as CoolSculpting® ELITE, laser tattoo removal, laser hair removal, Endymed radiofrequency microneedling, Ultherapy® and more. Schlessinger MD is also the single largest Allergan account in the world, supplying more BOTOX®, JUVEDERM® family of fillers and prescription LATISSE® eyelash serum to its patients than any other practice.
Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger are two of fewer than 20 dermatologic surgeons to ever be awarded the prestigious Iron Surgeon Award for their cosmetic work by the American
Society of Dermatologic Surgery and the only father-son team to ever be selected for this special honor. Additionally, Dr. Daniel Schlessinger is the youngest dermatologist to ever be recognized as an Iron Surgeon.
Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger personally perform every injectable treatment such as BOTOX®, Dysport and fillers for their patients to ensure they’re in the best possible hands.
At the heart of the practice is a passion for providing their patients with a premier experience and optimal results. While always on the cutting edge, the practice avoids fads that may not do well over time.
When you’re seen for an aesthetic consultation, you’ll see hundreds of before and after photographs that represent their own real results that are relatable to your concerns.
Call the office or visit SchlessingerMD.com/BookOnline to book an appointment online.
2802 Oak View Dr., Suite No. 100 Omaha, NE 68144 . 402.334.7546
SchlessingerMD.com
LovelySkin Retail Store is under the direction of board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Joel Schlessinger, and has been voted Best Beauty Supply Store 11 years in a row of the best skin and hair care products for various dermatologic and skin care concerns. While not all skin issues are treatable this way, the professionally trained retail staff will craft a regimen that serves you well. The highly trained team of licensed aestheticians at LovelySkin Spa and the experienced sales associates, each handpicked and trained by Dr. Schlessinger, work diligently to find what best suits your individual skin care needs.
OVELYSKIN.COM HAS BEEN offering premier skin care and beauty products since 1999, but it wasn’t until 2010 that the vision of a brick-and-mortar home came true. The LovelySkin Retail Store, located near Oak View Mall at 140th and West Center Road, offers over 350 brands and 15,000 unique products, including skin care, makeup, hair care, beauty tools and devices from brands such as SkinMedica®, Neocutis, SkinCeuticals, EltaMD, Laura Mercier, Revision Skincare, Olaplex® and more.
Dr. Joel Schlessinger’s vision is to offer a more accessible way to access his knowledge
Skin conditions ranging from pigmentation, scarring, acne, sun damage, dry skin, and wrinkles for customers of all ages can be addressed by the products carried at the
LovelySkin Retail Store. Its associates will always be honest with you about what can and can’t be done to address a problem and want you to feel comfortable knowing they are trying to make you feel the best in your own skin.
The LovelySkin Retail Store frequently hosts exclusive events with national brand educators and makeup artists, giving customers access to and education on the latest in skin care ingredients and technology, makeup, and trends in cosmetics and skin health. It also houses an express spa suite, an extension of the award-winning LovelySkin Spa, offering a variety of medical spa services with pampering and
relaxation in mind. LovelySkin Retail Store is open six days a week, and the team would love to welcome you to shop the wide variety of product options at a good value.
LLovelySkin.com is under the direction of board-certified dermatologist Dr. Joel Schlessinger, and has been the winner of the Best Local Website in Omaha for 11 years in a row.
OVELYSKIN.COM IS PROUD
to be the #1 rated local website in Omaha and the online market leader in cosmeceuticals (cosmetic skin care with pharmaceutical benefits). Developed by boardcertified dermatologist Dr. Joel Schlessinger, LovelySkin.com is the largest dermatologistowned and operated skin, hair, and beauty care website, serving nearly two million customers worldwide. LovelySkin.com offers more than 350 brands and 15,000 dermatologistapproved products, including skin care, makeup, hair care, beauty tools, devices, and more. Their dedicated team has won the Bizrate Circle of Excellence Platinum Award for
its expertise in customer service for 13 consecutive years and was recently selected by Newsweek as a Fastest Growing Online Shop and Best Online Shop for 2022 and 2023.
LovelySkin.com started in 1999 as an off-shoot of Dr. Schlessinger’s dermatology clinic, shipping only a few orders per week. Over the last 25 years, LovelySkin has grown into a state-of-the-art, 75,000 sq. ft. space in Gretna that has improved its ability to expand product lines and deliver orders to its customers faster, with inhouse support and unparalleled customer service. Being located in Omaha, Nebraska, allows for quick product shipments to all
parts of the country, with 95% of orders arriving to customers within 2-3 business days.
Part of the secret of their success is the focus on customer service and not outsourcing fundamental aspects of the business. LovelySkin also focuses on customer education, loyalty rewards, gifted samples and other promotions which keep customers happy and coming back for future shopping.
The LovelySkin Retail Store, a brick and mortar extension of LovelySkin.com, is still located near Oak View Mall at 140th and West Center Road, offering the same variety of unique product lines
from all your favorite brands such as SkinMedica®, Neocutis, SkinCeuticals, Laura Mercier, Revision Skincare, Olaplex® and more at a great value. They invite you to shop the LovelySkin.com experience or to visit the LovelySkin Retail Store today.
14651 South 210th Street
Gretna, NE 68028
402-697-1100
www.LovelySkin.com
IN 1996,
LovelySkin Spa was the first med spa in Nebraska, and it continues to offer the widest variety of spa-related services in addition to cosmetic treatments, including BOTOX®, Dysport, dermal fillers, and laser treatments such as MOXI® laser skin resurfacing, laser hair removal, laser tattoo removal, and other facial rejuvenating treatments. Their team of licensed clinical aestheticians and medical providers performs luxury facial treatments, including those from the DiamondGlow® and Natura Bisse professional lines, chemical peels, AQUAGOLD® microchanneling, SkinTyte®, HALO® laser skin resurfacing, IPL and BBL® HEROic,
and VISIA® Skin Analysis, to name a few. LovelySkin Spa is also a premier partner with SkinMedica®, Eminence Organics and Revision Skincare.
The spa includes three licensed aestheticians on staff who have trained under Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger to provide safe, effective and results-oriented solutions for their clients. The team works hand in hand with medical directors Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger, who personally perform each and every filler and BOTOX® injection treatment.
Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger are two of fewer than 20 dermatologic surgeons to ever be awarded the prestigious Iron Surgeon
Award for their cosmetic work by the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery and the only father-son team to ever be selected for this special honor. Additionally, Dr. Daniel Schlessinger is the youngest dermatologist to ever be recognized as an Iron Surgeon.
This medical spa is dermatologist-run and supervised and the staff are highly trained on the latest equipment and the most up-to-date techniques. Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger, along with their physician assistants, Jackie Gaffney and Shea Perillo, personally oversee each and every aesthetic laser treatment to ensure procedures are both safe and effective.
LovelySkin Spa is under the direction of board-certified dermatologists Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger and has been voted Best MedSpa in Omaha for 11 years in a row
LovelySkin.com/Spa
The goal is to offer the best service in the best environment with the safest outcome while also achieving results and ensuring patient satisfaction. Call the spa or book an appointment online at SchlessingerMD.com/ BookAFacial.
Schlessinger MD is under the direction of board-certified dermatologists
Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger and has been voted Best Body Contouring for two years in a row
CHLESSINGER MD, A premier dermatology and cosmetic surgery practice at 140th and West Center, offers a variety of body contouring treatments and was the first in the Midwest to offer CoolSculpting® ELITE. This system is the only non-invasive, in-office procedure that uses advanced cooling technology to gently and effectively target and eliminate fat. This system allows for faster treatments and greater comfort levels with 45 percent less discomfort than original CoolSculpting®.
Their team of providers, including Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger and two physician assistants, Jackie Gaffney and Shea Perillo, are all expertly
trained to identify candidates for treatment and to work with each patient to personalize a treatment plan for achieving optimal results.
Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger are two of fewer than 20 dermatologic surgeons to ever be awarded the prestigious Iron Surgeon Award for their cosmetic work by the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery and the only father-son team to ever be selected for this special honor. Additionally, Dr. Daniel Schlessinger is the youngest dermatologist to ever be recognized as an Iron Surgeon.
If you’ve been struggling to shape your body, even after
committing to a consistent routine of working out and eating well, you’re not alone and could be a great candidate for CoolSculpting® ELITE or SmartLipo.
Other treatments at Schlessinger MD include SmartLipo, Kybella, an injectable solution for fat under the chin, as well as SkinTyte® laser and Cellfina®. All are in-office procedures with very little downtime that help improve or reduce the appearance of cellulite, pigmentation abnormalities, and skin imperfections.
With multiple body contouring options, Schlessinger MD has created more opportunities for improvement with choices that
fit a range of budgets. The practice also prides itself on showcasing hundreds of beforeand-after photos of its own patients. Contact their team of dedicated cosmetic patient coordinators today to schedule your aesthetic consultation and determine which solution is best for you. Call the office or book an appointment online at SchlessingerMD.com/ BookOnline.
LovelySkin Spa is under the direction of board-certified dermatologists, Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger
WITH OVER 350 five-star reviews, LovelySkin Spa and their three full-time aestheticians are dedicated to providing each patient with a personalized experience. Proudly voted Omaha’s Best Day Spa since 2012, LovelySkin Spa offers a tranquil retreat for your mind, body, and soul. The advanced VISIA® Skin Analysis tool allows the Aesthetic team to assess your skin beneath the surface, enabling them to create a tailored treatment plan and recommend an athome skin care regimen to guide you on your journey to healthier skin. LovelySkin Spa is also proud to be the exclusive provider of Natura Bissé professional spa treatments in Omaha and a premier Eminence Organics partner.
Discover a curated range of professional and medical-grade facials, peels, and microneedling services, each designed to address concerns such as aging, acne, hyperpigmentation, dehydration, sun damage, and texture issues. They also offer soothing body treatments that firm, smooth, and tighten the skin. No matter your needs, their expert team will provide personalized guidance to help you understand your skin and reveal your most radiant self.
Call the spa or book an appointment online at www. SchlessingerMD.com/ BookAFacial.
2802 Oak View Dr., Suite No. 300 Omaha, NE 68144 . 402.334.1226 LovelySkin.com/Spa
AT LOVELYSKIN SPA , and Schlessinger MD, the expert team specializes in professional waxing and hair removal services to give you smooth, flawless skin. Whether you’re looking for a quick brow touch-up, a bikini wax, or fullbody laser hair removal, they offer a range of treatments to suit your needs. Their aestheticians use the highest quality wax and advanced techniques to ensure a gentle, comfortable experience with longlasting results. Also offered by the licensed medical providers are a variety of laser hair removal options including the GentleMax Pro Plus (Alexandrite and Nd:YAG, which is safe for all skin tones), ICON IPL, and BBL ForeverBare.
LovelySkin Spa is under the direction of board-certified dermatologists, Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger, and has been voted Best Waxing/Hair Removal for five years in a row
LovelySkin Spa’s licensed aestheticians are dedicated to providing personalized care, ensuring each session is customized to your skin type and hair removal goals. Book your appointment today and discover why LovelySkin Spa is Omaha’s best choice for expert waxing and hair removal services as well as Natura Bissé facials, Eminence Organic skin care and hundreds of other products.
Call or book an appointment online at SchlessingerMD. com/BookOnline.
Under the direction of BoardCertified Dermatologists, Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger
SINCE 1996, LOVELYSKIN
SPA has been the leading destination for a wide array of professional treatments and services. With three outstanding full-time aestheticians, they offer a blend of luxury and results-driven solutions. LovelySkin Spa is the exclusive Nebraska provider of Natura Bissé, a renowned Barcelonabased skin care brand known for its potent, active ingredients and signature relaxation techniques, including facial contour exercises and massage.
LovelySkin Spa’s aestheticians also provide a variety of chemical peels, dermaplaning facial treatments, DiamondGlow®, AQUAGOLD® microchanneling, and other luxury face and body treatments from brands such as Revision Skincare, SkinCeuticals, Eminence Organics, and SkinMedica®.
Other offerings include SkinTyte® by Sciton, VISIA Skin Analysis, and more.
Whether it’s your first visit or fifth, LovelySkin Spa’s expert aestheticians will develop your professional treatment plan while also pairing you with an at-home skin care regimen tailored to your needs. They warmly invite you to discover the rejuvenating and restorative experience at their state-of-theart day spa in Omaha. Call the spa or book an appointment online at SchlessingerMD. com/BookAFacial.
2802 Oak View Dr., Suite No. 300 Omaha, NE 68144 . 402.334.1226
LovelySkin.com/Spa
Schlessinger MD is under the direction of board-certified dermatologists Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger and has been voted Best Laser Hair Removal for five consecutive years.
AS A NON-INVASIVE body treatment, laser hair removal is incredibly convenient—treatment sessions can be completed in as little as 30 minutes, depending on the areas being treated. Schlessinger MD offers three exceptional lasers, all providing zero downtime: the GentleMax Pro Plus (Alexandrite and Nd:YAG, which is safe for all skin tones), ICON IPL, and BBL ForeverBare.
Dr. Joel Schlessinger has been at the forefront of all laser procedures and assisted in the development of laser hair removal technology. The licensed team of nurses and physician assistants at Schlessinger MD, under the direction of board-certified
dermatologists Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger, have been performing safe and effective laser hair removal for a combined total of over 30 years.
If you’re looking for a reliable solution to stubborn, inconvenient body hair, you may be an excellent candidate for laser hair removal. With virtual consultations, you can easily communicate your needs and goals to the provider, who will determine if this treatment is right for you. Call or book online at SchlessingerMD. com/BookOnline.
2802 Oak View Dr., Suite No. 100 Omaha, NE 68144 4 02.334.7546
SchlessingerMD.com
Custom Home Builder
“IT’S EASY TO be inspired by previous home designs, but we like to explore what’s never been done before,” said Steve Huber, President of Curt Hofer & Associates.
“Going into the design process with certain limits already in place, you’re not doing justice to a true custom build.”
That commitment to innovation and an unwavering focus on quality has earned Curt Hofer & Associates the Best of Omaha title for decades—a tradition that has changed the city’s expectations around custom homes.
“There’s something to be said about building in the Omaha area,” said Craig Linnenbrink, Vice President of Construction.
“We’re grateful to work with dedicated, skilled subcontractors and specialists who want every done job right. And those jobs are
made possible by clients who know quality and trust us to deliver each time. It makes every project uniquely challenging, and gratifying.”
Like creating the perfect balance of rustic and romantic with The Cottages at Sanctuary Ridge, or offering a slice of solitude minutes from the city with The Haven at Lonergan Lake—each Curt Hofer & Associates development is built to suit the surrounding landscape as much as the clients’ lifestyle.
The team at Curt Hofer & Associates is thrilled and honored to continue serving as a trusted name in custom home-building.
F YOU TALK to people about transformational experiences in your life—such as having a baby or getting married—there are very few in a lifetime. For people who have had LASIK or other vision correction procedures, it shows up on their list.” – Lance Kugler, MD
Kugler Vision understands that vision correction is not just about clearer sight, but about enhancing your quality of life. Lance Kugler, MD, Drew Dickson, MD and the entire Kugler Vision team provide a transformative experience in vision correction through 7 advanced procedures.
O ur comprehensive approach begins with an in-depth, customized treatment plan, tailored to meet your unique needs. Whether it’s eliminating the need for glasses or contacts through LASIK, tackling high prescriptions and other tough vision problems with EVO ICL,
or addressing age-related vision changes with RLE, Kugler Vision is equipped with the technology and expertise to ensure outstanding results.
Patient experience is at the heart of our practice. From a welcoming, spa-like environment to thorough and personalized follow-up care, every aspect is designed to ensure comfort and confidence in your vision correction journey from start to finish. We’re proud to be a Best of Omaha LASIK provider 10 years running!
KuglerVision.com
Estate Planning, Employer - Less Than 100 Employees, Law Firm
UILD A LEGACY THAT LASTS WITH LEGACY DESIGN STRATEGIES
At Legacy Design Strategies, we understand that family is more than just relationships—it’s the legacy you leave behind. We specialize in helping families and businesses protect and pass on their hard-earned wealth, ensuring a lasting impact for generations to come. Our team of dedicated counselors and attorneys is passionate about safeguarding your family’s financial story and legacy.
Imagine having peace of mind knowing your loved ones will not only inherit your assets but also the legacy you’ve worked a lifetime to build. Our Lifetime Legacy Program™ provides continuous support, guidance, and annual
updates to ensure your estate plan remains current, giving you the confidence that your legacy is in safe hands.
WHAT SETS US APART:
• We are one of the Midwest’s largest law firms exclusively focused on estate and business planning.
• Our expertise covers trusts, wills, charitable planning, powers of attorney, Medicaid planning, business entity formation, and more.
• We partner with your financial advisors to create a custom, long-term strategy to protect what matters most to you— your family and your wealth.
OUR MISSION: At Legacy Design, we are driven by one mission: to help families design, preserve, and protect their legacy for future generations.
We do this through careful planning and fostering lifelong relationships with our clients.
WHY CHOOSE LEGACY DESIGN STRATEGIES?
• Tailored Solutions: We work closely with you to develop a plan that evolves with your family’s needs.
• E xpert Counsel: Our team is known for high levels of professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to securing your future.
• Comprehensive Support: From estate planning and charitable trusts to business succession, we offer comprehensive services to ensure every aspect of your legacy is covered.
CORE VALUES: Legacy: Your work and legacy are significant, and we’re here to ensure they’re protected.
Excellence: We uphold the highest standards, delivering exceptional service at every step.
Integrity: Our word is our bond—trust is the foundation of every relationship.
Family: At the heart of everything we do is family, and we strive to honor yours as if it were our own.
RESULTS THAT MATTER: Our mission isn’t just about documents— it’s about creating peace of mind for every step of life’s journey. At Legacy Design Strategies, we’re here to help you build a lasting legacy that stands the test of time.
9859 S. 168th Ave., Omaha, NE 68136 402.235.5625 . info@ldstrategies.com ldstrategies.com
Private Elementary School, Private High School, Preschool
UILDING A BRIGHTER FUTURE TOGETHER
In an ever-evolving world, Brownell Talbot College Preparatory School (BT) is a leader in educational excellence, committed to building a brighter future for its students. Recognizing that tomorrow’s challenges require a new approach to education, BT has crafted an experience that goes beyond traditional academics, focusing on the skills and mindset needed for success in an interconnected world.
BT’s curriculum is designed to nurture global citizens, with compassion, integrity, responsibility, and respect as cornerstone values. The school integrates essential skills into every aspect of education:
• Embracing differences
• Caring for humanity and the natural world
• Cultivating curiosity
• Developing self-awareness
• Thinking critically
• Working collaboratively
This approach not only builds a strong school community, it also prepares students to be empathetic leaders in a global context.
The journey at BT is one of selfdiscovery, encouraging students to find a bolder way forward while staying true to their values. Students are expected to become active participants in their educational journey, learning to manage their time, set goals, and take initiative – skills crucial for success in college and beyond.
In BT’s classrooms, students are challenged to address complex problems and act with unwavering integrity, building confidence and a sense of responsibility that extends beyond the school walls.
The value of a BT education is evident in the transformation of its students into young adults ready to take on the world. By challenging students to discover their distinct talents, fostering a globally minded perspective, and providing personalized attention, BT is laying the foundation for a generation of leaders who will shape the future.
BT offers an educational experience that goes beyond textbooks and tests. It’s an invitation to join a community dedicated to
building a brighter future, one student at a time.
Brownell Talbot College Preparatory School
400 N. Happy Hollow Blvd. Omaha, NE 68132
402.556.3772 brownell.edu
Nebraska’s only private, independent, college prep school for students age 3 through grade 12.
To learn more about how Brownell Talbot is shaping the leaders of tomorrow and to explore the possibilities for your child, visit brownell.edu.
OUNSELING CONNECTIONS & ASSOCIATES (CCA) is honored to be voted Omaha’s No. 1 Counseling Service for the ninth consecutive year and No. 1 Couples Counseling Service for the fourth year in a row in the 2025 Best of Omaha contest. We are incredibly grateful to the Omaha community for trusting us with their mental health needs and supporting our mission to provide exceptional care.
Since 2011, under the leadership of Dr. Kristi TackettNewburg, CCA has grown into one of the region’s most trusted mental health providers. Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to providing compassionate and individualized
care, empowering clients to overcome obstacles and create meaningful change in their lives.
CCA’s services extend beyond traditional counseling. We offer comprehensive mental health care, including medication management, emotional wellness coaching, performance coaching, and specialized workshops designed to help individuals develop resilience, improve communication, and navigate the complexities of modern life. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself, your relationship, or your career, our programs are designed to equip individuals with the tools they need to thrive, both personally and professionally.
Accessibility remains a core value at CCA. In addition to our in-person services, CCA provides Telehealth options, allowing clients to connect with our providers from the comfort of their own homes. We understand that flexibility is key in maintaining consistent, high-quality mental health care, and we are proud to offer this convenience to our clients.
We are also proud to announce our expansion into West Omaha, where our new location will serve clients from Millard, Elkhorn, and Gretna. This second office will allow us to meet the growing demand for our services and create new opportunities for our team of exceptional providers.
This recognition is a testament to the trust we’ve built within the Omaha community, and we are deeply grateful for the ongoing support. As we move forward, CCA remains focused on our core mission: delivering innovative, client-centered care that makes a lasting impact. We look forward to continuing our journey with the Omaha community by our side.
Animal Hospitals have been serving the Greater Omaha Community for more than 50 years. Guided by a passion for patient care, Gentle Doctor is proud to have earned your vote as Omaha’s Best Veterinary Hospital 10 years in a row.
The patients themselves can’t cast a vote for Best of Omaha, but their humans and advocates—the practice’s clients— have done so on their pets’ behalf in recognition of Gentle Doctor Animal Hospitals’ conscientious care, Dr. Pete Bashara said. “I think it’s still amazing the relationships that we maintain with these clients who are now sometimes thirdgeneration,” he said. “That
longevity is something that is very rewarding, the fact that our community has continued to embrace the services and value the things that we’re doing. That’s a huge emotional value for me as an owner.”
The practice provides advanced medical technology such as fluoroscopy and noninvasive imaging with 3-D rendering, Bashara said. “There’s a tremendous amount diagnostically that we can do that really does set us apart.” However, he added, the team also focuses on making exams and procedures for their furry, feathered or scaled patients as comfortable as possible with special touches like anti-slip mats on exam tables, calming blankets, and even a treat if the animal
is well enough. If the patients could speak, he said, “the hope would be that they’d say we as a group really embody the title of our practice, that we work in a gentle manner… we try and manage that environment the very best that we can.”
From 1965, when Dr. T. Robert Bashara began his solo practice at Mapleview Animal Clinic on Ohio Street, to 1997 when Dr. Pete Bashara joined the family business, to today, Gentle Doctor Animal Hospitals have been honored to serve hundreds of wonderful Omaha-area families. The practice now includes 10 talented veterinarians and a truly dedicated support staff; they’re the real reason you voted Gentle Doctor Animal Hospitals Best of Omaha!
15230 West Maple Rd. Omaha, NE 68116
402.445.4400
12031 Blondo St. Omaha, NE 68164
402.493.9650
8911 Grant St. Omaha, NE 68134
402.397.4344
gentledoctoranimalhospitals.com
ROTELLA’S ITALIAN
BAKERY, INC. ,Inc., a family-owned and operated business for over a century, has once again achieved a significant milestone. Brothers Lou Rotella III and John Rotella, two of the company’s Operations Executives, have been recognized with the prestigious Baking & Snack 2024 Operations Executives of the Year award. This recognition is a testament to their exceptional leadership, dedication, and commitment to excellence.
For Lou III and John, working at Rotella’s is a privilege rooted in the company’s history. As a 100+-year-old family business, Rotella’s has a legacy of quality and innovation that has been passed down through generations.
One of the most rewarding aspects of working at Rotella’s is the opportunity to collaborate with family. Lou Rotella Jr., the current CEO and President, has been an integral part of the company for decades. His guidance, wisdom, and unwavering support have been invaluable to his sons. Working alongside him has not only been a professional experience but also a personal one.
6949 S. 108th St. La Vista, NE 68128 402.592.6600 Office
1.800.759.0360 Toll-Free rotellasbakery.com
OR OVER 25 years, Omaha Primary Eye Care has been a trusted name in providing topnotch eye care. The practice’s unwavering commitment to excellence and their mission to deliver award-winning patient care extends from dedicated doctors to customer-focused staff, ensuring an unparalleled patient experience. Omaha Primary Eye Care has been recognized as one of the city’s best optometric practices by Omaha Magazine since 2011.
The practice’s latest cuttingedge technology includes Neurolens, which begins with a virtual reality headset to precisely diagnose misalignment issues and provides tailored eyewear to address the accompanying symptoms. OptiLight IPL and LipiFlow thermal pulsation are among the cutting-edge treatments available to provide relief from dry eye syndrome.
The practice even serves the youngest members of the community by participating in InfantSEE and SeeToLearn programs offering free vision assessments for 6- to 12-month-old babies and 3-year-olds.
Omaha Primary Eye Care continues to evolve, ensuring that the community receives the highest quality eye care and celebrates many years of excellence, innovation, and a commitment to patients’ vision and eye health. This is our formula for providing award-winning patient care.
402.330.3000
omahaeyecare.com
DR. HARBISON, A, highly regarded facial plastic surgeon in Omaha, is renowned for his expertise and commitment to delivering exceptional results. Along with breast and body contouring specialist, Dr. Hall, the practice offers a comprehensive range of plastic surgery and aesthetic treatments, all designed to enhance the natural beauty and confidence of each patient.
Central to their approach is the belief that every patient deserves individualized care. From the moment a patient enters the clinic, they are met with a personalized experience tailored to their unique goals. The initial consultation is a comfortable and thorough process, during which our team of experts takes the time to understand the patient’s aesthetic desires and medical needs, ensuring a treatment plan that is custom crafted to meet their specific objectives.
This personalized care continues throughout the entire surgical journey. They constantly strive
to provide a calming environment, offering support to ease pre-surgery anxiety and ensuring meticulous guidance during the recovery process. This comprehensive approach results in not only superior surgical outcomes but also a smooth, lowstress experience.
Under Dr. Harbison’s direction, patients enjoy transformative results that enhance both their appearance and self-confidence, making his practice a premier destination for plastic surgery in Omaha.
Windows & Doors
HE PERSIGEHL FAMILY
started Window Innovations in 2001 with the following core values: Always act with honesty and integrity, provide customers with the best value possible, and use teamwork to provide an unmatched, positive experience. These are the guiding principles that are still used today.
Replacing the windows and doors in one’s home can be a daunting task, and Window Innovations wants to do everything they can to make it easier. Their consultant approach is designed to educate customers not only about products and services, but also about the replacement process and what to expect (and avoid) from a home improvement company. It’s a “pressure-free” process where they break the stereotypes of the high-pressure competition.
The products chosen by Window Innovations have a proven track record, provide maximum value, and offer selections that can fit any budget. Those include
11941 Centennial Rd., Suite No. 4 La Vista, NE 68128
402.905.9100
windowinnovations.com
windows, patio doors, entrance doors, skylights, and many other specialty products.
Window Innovations’ new design studio is unlike any other window showroom. With the help of new technologies and mobile displays, it can be adapted to the needs of each homeowner in a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere. Those in the market for new windows or doors should consider making an appointment.
“COX IS INCREDIBLY proud to be named a Best of Omaha winner for the 16th consecutive year. This recognition highlights our unwavering commitment to our customers and communities. Such an achievement doesn’t happen by chance—it’s the direct result of our significant investments in both our people and technology.
—Kim Rowell, Vice President Cox Communications
Over the past decade (20142023), Cox has invested nearly $12 billion in network upgrades, enabling us to provide some of the most powerful communications and entertainment services available today. This investment allows us to deliver top-tier services, including multi-gigabit internet speeds to all customers
in the greater Omaha area. Unlike other providers that limit high-speed internet to select neighborhoods, Cox’s inclusive approach ensures that every customer has access to our fastest speeds. This is all part of our commitment to offering cutting-edge technology and reliable connectivity for all.
Our core values guide everything we do at Cox, including our belief that taking care of our employees directly impacts the quality of service we provide to our customers. We invest heavily in employee development, ensuring they have the tools, training, and support they need to thrive. This commitment to our team is as strong as our investment in technology and infrastructure, such as our fiber network expansion, which allows us to meet the growing needs of our customers.
By investing billions into our existing fiber-powered network, we’re able to deliver faster, more reliable internet without disruption to any property. “We know customers want lightning-fast download speeds, seamless streaming, and enhanced capabilities for remote work, online learning, gaming, and more. Our 2-gig download speeds deliver that experience,” said Kim Rowell, VP at Cox Communications.
Cox’s commitment to excellence is longstanding. In addition to Best of Omaha for 16 years, Cox has also been recognized 9 years running by speedtest.net (Ookla) as the fastest internet provider in Omaha and recently, HighSpeedInternet.com ranked us as the fastest internet service provider (ISP) in the nation for
2023, based on average download speeds throughout the year.
This award reaffirms our dedication to delivering quality service, innovation, and meaningful relationships with our customers and community. We’re proud of this recognition, and even more so of the foundation we’ve built to ensure a connected future for everyone !
cox.com
FOUNDED IN OMAHA in 1965, Kutak Rock has evolved to become one of the nation’s leading business and finance law firms. With more than 550 attorneys across the country, including 180 in Omaha, Kutak Rock provides services in corporate and securities matters, employment and employee benefits, intellectual property, real estate, commercial finance, business acquisitions and dispositions, commercial litigation, and public finance, among others. We assist businesses of all sizes and types, from startups to Fortune 500 companies.
An independent research group, BTI Consulting, ranks Kutak Rock as one of the top-32 most trusted law firms in America for mergers and acquisitions. We’re equally proud of our local relationships, year-over-year named Best of Omaha law firm. Whether it’s our reinvestment in the downtown area, our cuttingedge transactions in affordable housing or renewable energy, our insights into technology that is changing agribusiness, or our ability to assist the local entrepreneur in starting a business, we proudly support Omaha and all that makes it grow.
UNICO GROUP, NEBRASKA’S largest independently owned insurance broker, provides property and casualty insurance, employee benefits, and personal insurance to clients across the nation. Our consultative and relationship-focused approach helps UNICO deliver tailored insurance solutions that safeguard your business, protect your employees, and secure your family’s future.
At UNICO, we’re fueled by our shared core values: Professional, trust, team player, and positive. Our team of insurance professionals stay up to date with the latest trends through continuous learning and involvement in industry associations. In working with UNICO, you’ll be introduced to an industry approach that combines best practices with thoughtful leadership and a passion for doing what’s right for our relationships. Partner with UNICO to experience where connections make the difference.
1650 Farnam St. Omaha, NE 68102
402.346.6000
kutakrock.com
12120 Port Grace Bldv. Ste. 102 La Vista NE, 68128 402.434.7200 unicogroup.com
STattoo Parlor
INCE BIG BRAIN Productions opened its doors in 2000, it has continued to expand its tattooing and piercing services.
The company also has grown in volume, with a reputation for innovative artistry anchored by conscientious practices.
1123 Jackson St. Omaha, NE 68102
402.342.2885 bigbrainomaha.com
Despite his accomplishments, Smith says he never loses perspective and maintains that his crew at Big Brain is his biggest source of pride.
“I truly appreciate the opportunity to lead such a talented group of artists,” he says. “I am very grateful for the support of my friends and clients.”
CHRISTOPHER A. VACANTI
is a founding member in the Omaha Family Law Firm of Vacanti Shattuck Finocchiaro, and has been practicing Family Law for 3 2 years. Vacanti’s core team consists of Partner, William L. Finocchiaro, who has been with the firm for 10 years, and Paralegal, Suzanne M. Carns, who has been with the Firm for 13 years. The Firm’s focus is on helping people navigate through issues related to divorce, custody, parenting time, support, modification, and other family law related matters. As strong but reasonable advocates for their clients, during what may be one of the most difficult times, their compassion, dedication, and experience are invaluable to people finding themselves in need of a Family Law Attorney. Vacanti and Finocchiaro are seasoned litigators, and with the assistance of Carns, are able
to guide their clients through the Court and Trial process should a reasonable settlement be unattainable. Vacanti has been recognized by The Best Lawyers in America – Family Law for the past 1 2 years; Super Lawyers – Family Law for the past 12 years; and Best of Omaha – Family Law for the past 5 years. Vacanti is honored to be voted one of Omaha’s Best in the Family Law Category.
2051 Harney St., Omaha, NE 68102
402.345.7600 vsfamilylaw.com
FCaterer
ROM START TO FINISH.
Your event is not just about the food and that is why our service and event planning are what set us apart.
Creating memorable experiences is what we do and we know that is much more than just food. Of course, our creative culinary team create award winning dishes paired with beautiful presentations that are sure to impress each of your guests. But we do so much more! Our knowledgeable event producers bring you exceptional service from the moment you first contact us. We deliver crafted custom menus, stunning displays, ontime service, smiling event staff, timelines, floor plans, décor and much more!
We make the planning process simple and streamlined so that you can have peace of mind
knowing that all aspects of your special event are covered and you can sit back and enjoy being a guest at your own event.
Make us a part of your wedding, holiday party, non-profit gala, client appreciation celebration, or any other occasion. When your event needs to be extraordinary and you want your guests to still be talking about your event long after it is over, Catering Creations is your first choice.
1915 Jackson St., Omaha, NE 68102
402.558.3202
cateringcreations.com omahamealdelivery.com
OCALLY AND FAMIILY owned for 3 generations, La Mesa has been voted Omaha’s #1 Mexican Restaurant over 20 years in a row and have been voted “Best of Omaha,” once again, for 2025.
“We are so humbled and thankful the community has honored us so many years, it really motivates us to continue to provide the best Mexican dining experience. We are really focused on maintaining our quality and consistency, not just with our food, but our service too. We want our customers leaving satisfied and happy,” says co-owner Jose “Chuy” Salazar.
With 6 metro locations La Mesa is not only convenient, but the perfect place to get together. Whether it’s bringing the family, a lunch meeting, girl’s night out, or celebrating a special occasion with a large gathering, La Mesa
checks all the boxes. And if you don’t have time to dine in, you can get your favorite La Mesa craving to go, or delivered too.
The continued longevity and success of La Mesa can also be attributed to their ability to evolve their menu offerings. Today, La Mesa boasts over 60 authentic specialty items, such as Birria, Molcajete and Pollo A La Crema, to name a few. And what was originally a few tequila choices has grown to over 100 high quality offerings. La Mesa also showcases these tequilas with its monthly featured margarita.
La Mesa has looked for ways to further engage their customers too. A perfect example is their ever-popular tequila tasting dinners, these special events have taken off and getting bigger and better every year.
Customers come together to enjoy a variety of high-quality tequilas and cocktails that are paired with a 5-course meal. “Customers get to experience and learn about different tequilas while enjoying authentic dishes from Mexico that are not on our menu, “says Salazar.
Another great customer event is La Mesa’s annual free trip for 2 to Mexico promotion. Over 20 years ago La Mesa started giving away a trip to Mexico as a way of thanking customers for their support. “People get so excited every year for the event and many of the customers who have won have never been to Mexico, so they are thrilled,” said Salazar.
Salazar points out while many things have evolved over the last 30 plus years, the one thing that hasn’t changed is how La Mesa
values their customers. “We really appreciate the number of people who have been supporting La Mesa for so many years, without them we wouldn’t be where we are today.”
And, La Mesa is poised to make 2025 even better than ever. So, come enjoy great food, in a great atmosphere, and have a great time too.
THE DENTISTS’ JOURNEY started in 1996 with the vision of Dr. Jay Samuelson. He began a dental practice in upand-coming Northwest Omaha with two chairs, three employees, and a desire to do whatever was best for the patient.
Today, The Dentists has grown to 7 doctors and 30 team members. Their four offices are still owned by Dr. Samuelson along with his partners Dr. Brian Pendley, Dr. JR Demman and Dr. Chad Snow. While the size may have changed, their philosophy has not to do whatever is best for the patient.
The Dentists want to make each patient’s dental experience as simple, convenient, and pleasant as possible by offering services such as cosmetic dentistry, smile makeovers, implants, oral surgery, and I.V. sedation along with routine dental care. Listening to patients’ needs and expectations guides the team through each and every appointment. The Dentists implement their core values of respect, humility, consistency, compassion, joy, and self-awareness to ensure that each patient’s experience is exceptional.
Their motto is: “Making our patient’s dental visits the best part of their day. Making our team’s career one of the best part of their lives.”
The Dentists at Ralston Square 5360 S. 72nd St. Omaha, NE 68127
402.733.4441
The Dentists at Hillsborough 13808 West Maple Road Suite No. 112 Omaha, NE 68164
402.445.4647
The Dentists at Dundee 119 N. 51st St. Suite No. 400 Omaha, NE 68132
402.502.5593
The Dentists at Village Pointe
302 N. 168th Circle
Suite No. 208 Omaha, NE 68118
402.505.7474
thedentistsomaha.com
OL’S JEWELRY & LOAN
General Manager, John Dineen, has seen some truly incredible and unique pieces come through his store—from high-end jewelry and accessories, both vintage and new, to highly sought-after designer handbags. Sol’s works with sellers who’ve inherited valuable items, private collectors looking to part with rare pieces, and buyers who seek statement jewelry that’s been professionally refinished, cleaned, and inspected.
For many, Sol’s offers a perfect alternative to paying full retail prices, while still enjoying full ownership of top-quality products. “We have amazing deals on designer and name-brand items,” says Dineen. “It’s a place where people can save money but still walk away with something truly exceptional.”
Family-owned and operated for over 40 years, Sol’s serves both buyers and sellers at its six metro locations, including its newly relocated downtown store at 22nd and Harney
Streets. With a strong reputation for outstanding service, Sol’s leaves customers feeling informed, confident, and completely satisfied. The expert team can even track down hard-to-find items, while also offering appraisal services and jewelry repair.
As the holiday season approaches, Sol’s is the perfect place to shop for unique, highquality gifts without breaking the bank.
Visit us at one of our six metro locations or online at SolsOmaha.com.
REAL ESTATE
Realtor/Real Estate Agent
AS A PASSIONATE and persistent Realtor, Karen Jennings says she is humbled and honored to provide quality leadership with the highest degree of integrity. Developing a solid, trustworthy relationship with her clients is the key. Jennings’ experience includes corporate and military relocation, single family homes including luxury homes, new construction, acreages, farms, and commercial properties. She has been selling real estate since 2002 and is licensed in both Nebraska and Iowa. As the leader of the Jennings Team, chief mom at home, former Husker basketball player, and Top Producer at BHHS Real Estate, Karen Jennings is always STANDING TALL for her customers.
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Ambassador Real Estate:
Chairman’s Circle 2018-2023
Top 25 Nationally - Small Teams - 2023
Top 25 Nationally - Mid Size Teams - 2021
Top 10 Nationally - Mid Size Teams - 2020
KOCA CHIROPRACTIC TAKES great pride in what they do in their office. Their mission is: “what starts here changes the world.” And they take that to heart. They truly want to change the world by creating practical solutions for the health crisis America is facing today.
Koca Chiropractic is committed to finding the cause of each patient’s health problem. Instead of turning towards something that does not address the cause and merely covers up the symptoms, they take the time necessary to find the cause and then create a specific chiropractic approach to help patients have a healthy time with their families.
Koca Chiropractic’s team is dedicated to families of the community in which they have been serving for over 20 years. To schedule your appointment, call their office or book online today!
331 Village Pointe Plaza Omaha, NE 68118
402.493.4663 Office
402.290.6296 Cell karenjennings.com
Outdoor Living Space, Retaining Walls, Landscaping Service
4423 S. 37th St. Omaha, NE 68107
john@omahaturf.com 402.936.1258 omahaturf.com
MAHA TURF MANAGEMENT has over 15 years experience in the lawn care and landscaping industry providing the highest quality landscape, grounds maintenance and snow removal services in Omaha. Omaha Turf Management has produced amazing and award-winning landscape design and installation projects for Omaha residents each and every year, while our grounds maintenance division continues to keep our commercial clients’ properties looking top-notch.
We operate under a very simple principle that guides everything we do: Our customers are our neighbors and friends who trust us to provide superior service at a fair and reasonable price. Our commitment to the highest degree of professionalism leads our clients to share their positive experiences with their neighbors and friends, helping us grow our business and continue providing the highest level of service possible in the industry.
Butcher Shop
S TOYSICH HOUSE OF SAUSAGE is a family owned meat market. With over 50 years of business we have committed ourselves to producing a quality product of which we are very proud. The House of Sausage makes over 140 varieties of sausage and processed meats. A mixture of locally raised beef and pork, combined with imported spices, create a product that has become a tradition on the tables of many Midwest families. We Invite you to stop by our stores and enjoy an old fashioned meat market - the type of meat market that many of our ancestors shopped at daily.
2532 S. 24th St. Omaha, NE 68108
402.341.7261 stoysich.com
BEING IN THE gutter contractor business for over 15 years was an effort of adaptation and determination. We have been able to be successful for so long because we made our main focus the customer. The Brothers that just do Gutters offer a wide variety of installations, cleaning and repairs in a small niche industry of seamless rain gutters and leaf guards. We have been able to grow the reliability of our services and offer only the best products by focusing all our effort on gutter systems and guards.
402.999.4614 brothersgutters.com/ omaha-lincoln-ne
HECTOR’S OPENED IN 1997. We are a locally owned and operated, single-site restaurant featuring Baja Style Mexican cuisine, based on the culinary style found in Baja California and Southern California. Our recipes are based on those from Hector’s mother and from his childhood, growing up in San Diego and Mexico. We are dedicated to serving authentic, delicious, fresh food with superior customer service in a family-friendly atmosphere. Come try our homemade flour tortillas and sample our free salsa bar!
We are honored and humbled to receive this award and sincerely thank those who voted for us.
1201 S. 157th St. O maha , N E 68130 402. 884.2272 hectorsomaha.com
ELKHORN ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION
Youth Athletic Organization
THE ELKHORN ATHLETIC
ASSOCIATION is a nonprofit youth sports organization committed to providing a safe, positive environment for children of all ages and abilities. We promote holistic development, leadership, and goal setting through a variety of programs tailored to each child’s interests and skill level . EAA offer s developmental, recreational and competitive levels. By encouraging parental involvement and offering professional staff and top-tier facilities, we aim to inspire our athletes to succeed both on and off the field. Our mission is to foster a lifelong love of sports and ignite a drive for excellence while helping children grow into wellrounded individuals.
1402 N. 203rd S t. Elkhorn, NE 68022 402.289.8358 elkhornathletics.org
AMERICAN NAILS AND Spa is highly honored to be voted #1 for Manicures and Pedicures by Omaha voters since 2012. “We have amazing clients and we want to say thank you for your continued support.”
American Nails and Spa has professional and licensed technicians who are dedicated to keeping up on cutting edge services, as well as providing exceptional customer service.
“Not only is getting regular manicures and pedicures great for beauty, they are beneficial for your overall health. We have a large salon to accommodate large parties as well as pampering yourself with our many different manicure and pedicure services, spray tanning and waxing.”
Stop by today and see why American Nails and Spa is the go-to choice in Omaha for manicures, pedicures, and more!
3618 N. 165th St. Omaha, NE 68116
402.779.8700 americannailsandspaomaha.com
S&W FENCE
Fences & Railings
S&W FENCE IS a familyowned business that’s been providing quality products and workmanship since 1960. S&W Fence was built on a foundation of hard work and dedication to quality, and we continue to operate with the same core values today!
S&W Fence offers a wide selection of fencing options including wood, vinyl, chain link, and steel, and we are constantly searching for new products to offer. S&W Fence also designs and fabricates custom ornamental iron and aluminum railings, fences, spiral staircases, and gates. All our products are expertly installed by a dedicated staff, most with over 10 years of experience. So, whether you want security, privacy, or elegance, S&W Fence has the product for you!
Celebrating 64 years in business!
15803 Pacific St. Omaha, NE 68118
402.333.5722 sw-fence.com
Garage Doors, Windows & Doors
OMAHA DOOR & Window has been family-owned and operated since 1959. They have consistently provided customers with a wide selection of quality products purchased directly from top manufacturers at the lowest prices, thereby passing on the savings to their customers. They install, remodel, service, and finance all the products they sell and also repair many product brands that they don’t sell.
Omaha Door & Window keeps their customers coming back by providing excellent service.
Products & Services
• Garage Doors
• Openers
• Windows
• Entry Doors
• Patio Doors
• Siding
• Sunrooms
• Gutter Protection
• Hollow Metal Doors
• Glass Replacement
• 24-Hr Service
“O4665 G St. Omaha, NE 68117
402.733.6440
800.383.0083 omahadoor.com
Funeral Home
UR ICE CREAM is an old fashioned, East-Coast style,” says co-owner Jeanne Pittack. “It’s thick, heavy, and locally sourced.”
Ted & Wally’s ice cream is ultra-premium. At a little over 20% butterfat, it is higher butterfat than anything you can buy in grocery stores.
“We make it how we like it,” says Pittack, and they like it made from scratch without corn syrup or artificial ingredients. The second Ted & Wally’s location in Benson continues to thrive. Customers can enjoy A Taste of New Orleans Creole Cafe and follow it with locally sourced ice cream from Ted & Wally’s. TED & WALLY’S Ice Cream
BRIAN ROEDER IS a fourth-generation funeral director and President of Roeder Mortuaries, Inc. A U.S. Navy veteran, Brian has been deployed overseas for Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraq Freedom.
Family and tradition are a big part of Roeder Mortuary. Family-owned since 1912, Roeder Mortuary now serves Omaha and Gretna from three locations.
“Our Family, Helping Yours,” is more than just a slogan it’s how Roeder Mortuary does business.
We believe that our primary purpose is to provide careful, caring service to our community. We also believe that independence, fairness, professionalism, and integrity are necessary ingredients in building a relationship of trust with the families we serve.
4932 Ames Ave. Omaha, NE 68104
402.453.5600
2727 N. 108th St. Omaha, NE 68164
402.496.9000
11710 Standing Stone Dr. Gretna, NE 68028
402.332.0090
roedermortuary.com
QUALITY, INTEGRITY, TIMELY Service, Professional and Honest. These are just a few of the qualities you can expect from Sam the Concrete Man-Nebraska and their owner Kevin King.
From getting an estimate in your hands the day of your appointment(many times on site) to high quality work done in a timely manner, Kevin and his team provide you with everything you need.
We build strong relationships as shown by having several repeat customers in just the first two years of business. We have done jobs ranging from one sidewalk panel up to a four thousand square foot parking lot remove and replace. Driveways, sidewalks, patios, shed pads poured retaining walls, hot tub pads are just the start to what Kevin and his team can do.
W ith over twenty years of experience in the building materials and construction industry, you can trust Kevin and his team to handle your project in the most professional and quality manner.
1405 N. 146th Plaza, Omaha, NE 68154
402.265.0044
aksarben.samtheconcreteman.com
Breast Augmentation, Tummy Tuck, Body Contouring Dr. Nagi Ayoub, Cosmetic Surgeon Winner
T WESTFIELD PLASTIC Surgery Center, trust is the fundamental core value within our team and with our patients. This has allowed us to elevate the viability, quality, and confidence of our lifetime patients, through their patient experience and results.
“We concentrate on a patient experience like no other in the city,” said board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Nagi T. Ayoub. “It’s comfortable, private, and patient-centric.”
Ayoub’s patients have taken notice, voting Westfield Plastic Surgery Center among the Best of Omaha for seven consecutive years.
“We’re very honored to have been recognized seven years in a row,” Ayoub said. “It comes back to putting the patient first. We thank our patients for recognizing us because that’s the ultimate measure of success—being recognized in the community.”
Westfield is a comprehensive, head-to-toe aesthetic and reconstructive practice, offering surgical, noninvasive, and minimally invasive procedures. Ayoub remains dedicated to innovation—whether via ongoing medical education to augment professional certification and training—or investing in state-of-the-art technologies.
The practice fields a PicoLazer tattoo removal and skin rejuvenation device, and utilizes RF microneedling to diminish scar tissue, wrinkles, and other skin defects by stimulating collagen synthesis.
Westfield’s investment in noninvasive procedures also includes: an erbium laser, a powerful stimulus for repair and regeneration of the skin without harming the surface directly, a fractional CO2 laser for skin resurfacing; IPL (intense pulsed light) PhotoRejuvenation; CoolSculpting;
and more. Additionally, Westfield features a proprietary skin care line formulated with ultrahigh-quality ingredients.
Westfield has onboarded t wo registered nurses (RNs) to complement a physician assistant, a certified medical aesthetician, and Ayoub himself—an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon.
“We listen to what patients say and continue to build upon it,” Ayoub said. “That means investing in high-quality staff, which allows us to deliver even higher quality care. Our brand is our team, and we’re committed to our patient’s needs.
“I have built my patient-centric practice on providing measurable, high-quality, cost-effective, and comprehensive care. Being independent of any healthcare system allows us to treat our patients like family. We have the
privilege to walk alongside them through their transformational journey to healing. We measure our success one extraordinary patient experience and result at a time. That’s what inspires me and my team daily to walk out our commitment to excellence in helping our patients select treatments that bring out their best possible version.
“We always put the patient first,” Ayoub affirmed.
HAS been a familyowned business since our inception more than 20 years ago. We were founded by Charles House out of Arlington, NE. Eventually, his son, Dave House, purchased the company and worked hard to grow it. In 2024, Tim and Jordan Litherland, Dave’s sonin-law and daughter, bought the business.
From the start, our company has worked to set us apart from the competition. We own what is arguably the strongest reinforcement patent for American flags, and all our American, military, and state flags are made entirely in the USA. Our customers experience exceptionally long fly times for their American flags that outlast all the others. We offer full solutions for flagpoles and flags around the region.
10239 Madison St. Omaha, NE 68127
402.689.9141
durableflags.com
Coffeehouse
Z EN COFFEE COMPANY is a beloved Omaha coffee shop, first opened in 2017. It is founded and owned by Abby and Ryan McLeay. Their newest location has just opened in Lincoln NE!
Zen is most known for their Coffee and Toast flights, but has over 40 drink options to offer, a full pastry and toast menu. Each location offers a different vibe but same delicious products and amazing service!
The motivation behind Zen is the people – Zen supports nonprofits continuously within their business model. They prioritize giving back to the community by working with several local nonprofits and organizations monthly.
Be sure to check out their locations for good vibes and great coffee!
Visit zencoffeecompany.com for more information.
Zen Farnam (Downtown Omaha, Flagship Location) 2504 Farnam St ., Omaha, NE 68131 402-452-3085
Zen West (133rd and Center Omaha, Bakery) 2505 S 133rd Pl aza., Omaha, NE 68144 531-466-5134
Zen One Pacific (Trader Joes, Drive Thru) 10309 Pacific St ., Omaha , NE 68114 531-999-1888
Zen Lincoln (Downtown Lincoln, 14th + O) 1339 O St ., Lincoln, NE 68508 531-310-5812
ATHER OMAHA—BEST FOR LOCALLY SOURCED DINING
1108 Howard St . Omaha, NE 68102 402-260-8686 gather-omaha.com
At Gather Omaha, we’re passionate about bringing incredible, locally sourced flavors to your table. Named Best for Locally Sourced Dining, we pride ourselves on offering fresh, flavorful dishes that highlight the best of what our region has to offer. Beneath our restaurant lies a subterranean hydroponic farm, where we grow vibrant produce year-round, ensuring that every meal is made with the freshest ingredients.
Our commitment to sourcing locally goes hand in hand with our dedication to crafting amazing food. From elk Bolognese to fresh seasonal salads, our menu offers a diverse array of dishes that showcase both creativity and local flavor. Come taste the difference and discover why Gather Omaha is a destination for food lovers and sustainability enthusiasts alike.
THE MILL COFFEE & TEA’S , flagship Omaha café is in the heart of Omaha at 31st and Leavenworth streets. Tracing our origins back to 1975, The Mill Coffee & Tea is as vibrant, modern, and comfortable as one could wish for. With ample seating inside and outside, as well as a drive thru , we are the perfect spot to meet friends, have a meeting, get some work done or just relax. Our house made pastries and sandwiches are delicious, and our beverage options include a full line of specialty coffee drinks, an extensive tea assortment as well as a full bar featuring craft cocktails, interesting beers, and a great selection of wines by the glass. Let’s meet at The Mill!
GARAGE REVOLUTION IS a familyowned business with a passion for garage floor coatings and decorative concrete. Started in 2015, they have worked with a multitude of manufacturers to develop the best coating system for various scenarios and uses. In the ever-evolving coating industry, Garage Revolution consistently strives to provide the highest quality materials possible.
A key facet of their success is their meticulous attention to detail. When it comes to substrate preparation, diamond grinding the concrete allows for a good profile for excellent coating adhesion. The highly skilled staff at Garage Revolution applies coatings at the required thickness, greatly extending substrate longevity as a result.
Garage Revolution also handles concrete staining as well as commercial applications. “Coatings are not a ‘one size fits all,’ and certain circumstances require different coating options.”
3105 Leavenworth St. Omaha, NE 68105
402.252.5588 millcoffee.com
“We welcome the opportunity to serve the Omaha and surrounding area contact us today to schedule a quote and witness firsthand the extreme adhesion and durability we’re known for. Thank you for voting us Best of Omaha in both the Garage Flooring and Decorative Con-crete categories !”
TWENTY-THREE YEARS AGO, Aneel and Hope Taj followed their dream to create an exceptional breakfast and lunch spot in our community. As a locally owned and operated business, they take great pride in crafting the best possible dining experience for their guests. Every detail in their restaurants, from the design to the locally sourced ingredients for their customized menu, is tailored to make them uniquely Le Peep Omaha. This year marks the 18th year in a row that Le Peep has been voted Omaha’s #1 Breakfast Restaurant. Le Peep was also awarded first place for Sunday Brunch. They attribute this honor to their loyal customers, professional and friendly staff, and attention to detail- always striving to serve a perfect plate every time.
“Thank you, Omaha, for voting us Best Breakfast and Brunch! We look forward to serving you!”
Aksarben Pointe
Pepperwood 559 N. 155th Plaza Omaha, NE 68154
402.408.1728
Legacy
17660 Wright St. Omaha, NE 68130
402.934.9914
lepeepomaha.com
FOR MORE THAN 15 years, the Law Office of Matthew A. Lathrop has been representing injury victims and their families. We are dedicated to putting control and order back into shattered lives, with empathy, professionalism, and immediate attention to our client’s needs, worries and fears.
D ealing with the life-changing consequences of catastrophic injuries requires a partner who will lighten the burdens and brighten the path through the difficult and uncertain times. A serious injury or death that is due to the carelessness of someone else; when the tragedy could have been prevented; the family needs a partner who also has the experience, skill and knowledge to pursue full accountability of the wrongdoer and ease the landing into new and challenging lives.
O ur highly experienced, compassionate staff can put worried minds at ease. There is no problem we haven’t dealt with. From medical bills to complex injuries to return-to-work worries, we know what our injured clients and their families are experiencing, and we guide them through the unknowns. Anticipating questions. Solving problems.
N o one wants to go to trial but having a recognized and experienced trial lawyer makes a difference. It is no secret who tries cases and who just settles. That impacts everything an insurance company, or government or corporate lawyer does.
We have more than 30 years of courtroom jury-trial experience. Although we are a proud Omaha small -business, we have successfully represented families across
the Midwest. Our courtroom strategies include cutting edge techniques that have proven results. We test and re-test your case before trial, to develop strengths and eliminate weaknesses. And we know the law.
M atthew Lathrop is the owner of the Law Office of Matthew A. Lathrop. He helps families seeking accountability for preventable personal injury, wrongful death, amusement park, and trucking accident cases. He has a driven and fearless staff of caring and empathetic professionals who always put the client’s interests first.
402.682.7556 lathroplawomaha.com
FOR FOUR YEARS and counting, the drain and sewage professionals at ZOOM DRAIN have provided specialized, affordable drainage services to the Omaha-metro and beyond.
“We don’t do plumbing,” noted Chris Roseland, owner of ZOOM DRAIN Omaha.
“We’re strictly a draining company—the drain and sewer experts, as we say.”
With a fleet of uniquely outfitted vehicles, certified drain-cleaning specialists, and flexible pricing options, ZOOM DRAIN combines diligence and flexibility to offer clients the best in drain upkeep and customer satisfaction.
“We can bid a quote, right there on the spot before we get started, with up-front pricing,” Roseland explained, “but we also do hourly pricing. Sometimes companies offer one or the other, but we’re able to perform the work for whichever works best for the customer.”
Additionally, ZOOM DRAIN customers benefit from wideranging, 24-hour support.
“We’re available in a 75 mile radius; Omaha, Lincoln, Council Bluffs, anywhere in the surrounding area,” Roseland said.
“We’re available 24 hours a day, whether online or through our 24hour dispatcher.”
This combination of superior qualities has earned ZOOM DRAIN the confidence of their clientele, as reflected in the company’s first place distinction in this year’s Best of Omaha contest for the category of drain cleaning.
“We’re a family-owned company here in Omaha,” Roseland said. “Our slogan? Fast, focused, and fixed.”
6215 Grover St. Omaha, NE 68106
402.979.ZOOM (9666) zoomdrain.com
Assisted Living Facility
HE BACK OF our business card has three words on it: Love, Local, and Lifestyle,” said Heather Herzberg, executive director of Parsons House on Eagle Run, which is Omaha’s leading Assisted Living and Memory Care community, nestled in a quiet neighborhood of Champion’s Run. “Love means taking care of our staff and residents, some of our staff have been here longer than 10 years.
Our recently renovated dining room overlooks Champions Run Golf Course, and many of our residents have spent a lot of years golfing. We have a day spa, a tavern, and a bistro that offers specialty coffees, sandwiches, and salads. There’s an opportunity to do as much—or as little—as they want.
“Local means Parsons House is privately owned,” Herzberg continued, stressing that the primary focus is on compassion,
quality care, and living life to the fullest. “We are a generational care community—we’re now seeing children of former residents,” added Julie GradyPotts, assistant executive director, who has been working at Parsons House for more than 20 years. Our professional and experienced staff is the heart and core of our community.
“Lifestyle means that we cater to residents’ likes and dislikes,” Herzberg mentioned, stressing that Parsons House is uniquely designed to create a warm and inviting home atmosphere. The landscaped and secured courtyards provide a peaceful setting for residents to enjoy a walk or visit with friends and family, they truly feel a sense of home.
14325 Eagle Run Drive Omaha, NE 68164
402.249.6050
parsonshouseseniorliving.com
GREG LINDBERG STARTED his business by selling Omahans fresh seafood from the New Orleans area out of a refrigerated truck.
Landlocked Omaha welcomed Lindberg’s Absolutely Fresh Seafood Company, which quickly moved from the street to a warehouse at 18th and Leavenworth. They pioneered the fresh seafood business in Omaha with a fish market and a wholesale division that sells to hundreds of area restaurants. It was so popular that, in 2003, Absolutely Fresh expanded to a store on 119th and Pacific that also provided West Omaha with a luncheonette. This was the beginning of Lindberg’s own restaurants.
“I spent a lot of windshield time looking for fish and shellfish along the Gulf and East coasts,
often waiting for boats to come into the docks. I’d stay at a Motel 6 and hang out at roadhouses, restaurants, and shrimp shacks. That’s where I got ideas for Shucks,” Lindberg said.
In 2006, Shucks Fish House & Oyster Bar opened. Its popularity prompted new restaurant locations at 168th and Center, then 19th and Leavenworth.
Shucks maintains a laid-back, costal feel and provides excellent food with friendly service. Their Shrimp Po’ Boys, Codwich, fish ’n’ chips, and clam chowder are customer favorites, and why Shucks has won Best of Omaha for over 15 years.
Along with the core menu, Shucks provides a happy hour, many daily specials, and special events like Shrimp Fest, Oyster Fest, Gumbo Days, and Clam
Chowder Days. All Shucks locations host a monthly First Tuesday fundraiser to benefit local charities, with the Crabby Blues Band playing 6-9 p.m. at Shucks Pacific Street.
The company also provides mostly gluten-free food.
“We were 95% gluten-free from the beginning and didn’t realize it,” Lindberg said. “We take it seriously, and are thrilled about getting the Best of Omaha award for it. But honestly, we got lucky—we have always used a corn base for our breading, the thinnest in town.”
Lindberg credits his dedicated staff for the success of Shucks, Absolutely Fresh Seafood, and Bailey’s Breakfast & Lunch. “Without these amazing people running our stores, we have nothing,” Lindberg said.
Shucks Legacy 16901 Wright Plaza 402.763.1860
Shucks Pacific St. 1218 S. 119th St. 402.827.4376
Shucks Downtown 1911 Leavenworth St. 402.614.5544
shucksfishhouse.com
HE PHYSICIANS OF Momenta Pain Care have led the region in the specialty of Pain Management for over 30 years. Dr. Peter Piperis, Dr. Griffith Evans and Reed Jarecke PA-C are committed to offering patients a non-surgical approach to restoring the body’s natural healing processes. By providing innovative and compassionate care to patients who suffer from acute and chronic pain, our specialists can give patients longterm pain relief.
If headaches, neck, back or joint pain are disrupting your life, find out how we can help you find relief so you can move forward pain free. After a thorough consultation, the providers of Momenta Pain Care will provide you with a personalized treatment plan using a wide range of advanced therapies.
As the only certified Regenexx affiliate in the area, our doctors specialize in cutting-edge nonsurgical, regenerative plateletrich-plasma and stem cell procedures that treat common orthopedic conditions.
Look to Momenta Pain Care for advanced alternative treatments for many joint conditions including plantar fasciitis with our Shockwave Therapy. For patients who suffer from overuse or soft tissue injuries, Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology (EPAT), Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT), and Extracorporeal Magnetotransduction Therapy (EMTT) are innovative evidence-based technology platforms used extensively around the world to stimulate tissue
repair and regeneration. Get better faster with Shockwave Therapy. There’s no surgery or anesthesia, no downtime, no scarring, and no risk.
Momenta Pain Care is pleased to now offer a revolutionary new technology, Emsculpt Neo, the first non-invasive treatment that simultaneously combines Radiofrequency heating and HIFEM procedure to reduce fat and build muscle. In a series of 30 minute treatment sessions with no downtime, Emsculpt is used to prevent and minimize generalized lower back pain while building and strengthening the core muscles and pelvic floor.
The entire Momenta Pain Care team would like to thank the Omaha community and
our patients for its trust and support in voting us #1 in the Best of Omaha for pain management. Please visit us at momentapaincare.com or call 402-991-6559 to make an appointment to learn why Momenta Pain Care was voted Best Pain Management Clinic!
1805 N. 145th St. Omaha, NE 68154
402.991.6559
momentapaincare.com
HE LAW OFFICE of LeRoy Peterson was established in 2012 and focuses exclusively on estate planning, elder law and probate administration.
So, what does that mean – it means we help families plan for and navigate through the chaos that will occur when a loved one passes away or experiences a period of time when they can no longer care for themself.
So, how do we do that:
First, we take the time to learn about each client’s personal situation and what is important to them. We educate them on the different options available, and then establish strong legal documents including power of attorney documents, wills and trusts - that are designed to:
• Clearly document their wishes
• Make a very difficult and stressful situation as easy as possible for their family
• And hopefully in the processpreserve family harmony
In situations where a family member can no longer make safe or sound decisions for himself/herself and lacks the capacity to designate a fiduciary to act on his/her behalf, we assist clients through the court proceeding required to establish a guardianship and/ or conservatorship.
We also help our clients navigate through the Medicaid and long-term care process and to the extent possible protect and preserve their hard-earned assets from the cost of longterm care
Finally, when a loved one passes away, we help the family settle their estate through a probate proceeding or trust administration and finalize Nebraska’s inheritance tax.
Our mission: Treat our clients the same way we would want someone to treat our family. That is why we dedicate the time necessary to help our clients understand their options so they can make clear informed decisions.
Experiencing the intricacies of end-of life planning firsthand with parents has provided a valuable perspective and a heightened sensitivity to the complexities of these matters. But more importantly, we appreciate the stress and emotion that is always present in both the planning and
Our Mission:
“We help families plan for and navigate through the chaos that will occur when a loved one passes away or experiences a period of time when they can no longer care for themself”.
11819 Miracle Hills Drive, Suite 104 Omaha, NE 68154 402.718.8888 leroypetersonlaw.com
the administration of end-oflife situations.
“THROUGHOUT MY 18+ year career in senior living, I’ve had the opportunity to serve countless older adults in their search for the right senior living community to meet their needs. Many have said they waited too long to make the move, but none have said they moved too soon,” Nolan Clare, Founder and President of Clare Senior Advisors, said.
Nolan and his team of Senior Living/Health Advisors are dedicated to helping older adults choose the right senior living community or in-home care company to meet their needs. Their commitment is backed by experience; everyone on the team has spent more than 10 years working in senior healthcare. “No other company can match our level of professional experience,” Nolan mentioned. “The people on our team are professionals who have been caring for and advising older adults and their families for a very long time,” Nolan added. “We’re really good at helping our clients and their families pinpoint what is important to them and then cater our referrals to meet their unique needs.”
11205 Wright Circle, Suite 110 Omaha, NE 68144-4719
402.990.6994
claresenioradvisors.com
Pilates Studio
IN THE HEART of West Omaha, something extraordinary is happening at Core10 Pilates. The secret? It’s the winning combination of dedication, community, and a fitness revolution that’s turning heads and transforming lives.
The Core10 workout is like the lovechild of Pilates and strength training. They take the tried-and-true Pilates method and dial up the intensity to a whole new level by combining it with the best of strength training methods. It’s high-intensity and low-impact.
These workouts aren’t just effective; they’re an absolute blast! Members walk out of each workout feeling energized and empowered. Say goodbye to boring fitness routines and hello to a stronger, leaner, and more toned you. It’s not just about the machines or the workout at Core10; it’s about the people. Our expert team of trainers are passionate about coaching people to get stronger, fitter and more flexible. Personal attention and guidance are what we do best.
It’s more than a fun, effective workout. It’s the Core10 vibe! The energy is contagious, and the support is unwavering. It’s a celebration of fitness with a community of like-minded people who are dedicated to health and fitness.
Sculpt your dreams at Core10 Pilateswhere fitness meets fun, excellence, and a whole lot of mojo!
• Best Way to Try It → Buy 1 Class –Get 1 Free ($33)
• Best Way to Start → Get 1 Private Session + 2 Classes ($99)
• Sign Up through the Core10 Pilates mobile app or website.
N ADDITION TO helping people obtain guardianship, we help with the decisions they need to make for their loved one,” said Molly Blazek, owner of Blazek Law Group. Most of the firm’s clients have a child with special needs or a relative with age-related cognitive decline.
“When a special needs child reaches 19 in the State of Nebraska, they become their own guardian,” Blazek explained, “but they might not be able to make their own medical and financial decisions, so their parent would have to seek a guardianship for them so that they could continue supporting in those roles.”
Sometimes a guardian is appointed at the request of a county judge. Blazek herself is a court-appointed guardian for over 40 people. Guardianship has touched the lives of the attorneys and professional staff of Blazek Law Group, and they are dedicated to supporting caregivers and their loved ones alike.
“We host workshops and have a robust online presence providing education and resources through our Guardian Connect platform,” Blazek added. “Our mission is to unite guardians and conservators across Nebraska in a way that has never been done before.”
444 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 308 Omaha, NE 68114
402.933.1010
blazeklawgroup.com guardianconnectnow.com
HIGH & YOUNES LLC is Omaha’s premier injury law firm. Specializing in personal injury, wrongful death, and workers’ compensation cases, we take pride in providing our clients with the highest quality representation and experience. Omaha k nows that when you need a serious attorney to fight after you or a loved one sustain a serious injury, High & Younes is the firm to turn to. Our only mission is to obtain the best possible result for every client, every time. Thank you to our clients for voting us Best of Omaha!
6919 Dodge St. Omaha, NE 68132 402.933.3345 hyattorneys.com
ASSOCIATION (VNA) is proud to be recognized for over a decade as Best of Omaha’s first place winner for In-Home Nursing Services. VNA goes where other healthcare providers don’t go…directly into the homes of our community’s most marginalized individuals and families, delivering expert, compassionate care to support community health and well-being. “We serve vulnerable people in homeless, domestic violence, and maternity shelters, in apartments housing multi-generations, and in homes where older adults have lived their entire adulthoods and want to remain independent.”
The common denominator in every home VNA enters is the opportunity to care for those who are uninsured, under resourced, or otherwise lack access to healthcare, education, and supportive services. And those opportunities are made possible by generous donations from foundations, corporations, and individuals.
In-Home Nursing Service, Non-Profit Event
vnatoday.org
“Receiving second place Best of Omaha honors for our Nonprofit Event – Art & Soup – directly recognizes the support we have received from our community as we raise money to place VNA nurses in every homeless and domestic violence shelter in Omaha and Council Bluffs. As Art & Soup heads in to its 28th year, we are grateful for your generous support and look forward to seeing you March 9, 2025 at Omaha Design Center.” EAT SOUP. BUY ART. CHANGE LIVES.
OMAHA PAIN PHYSICIANS
is redefining pain management. We believe no one should live a life in pain, and our mission is to help you reclaim your well-being. Whether it’s headaches, back pain, or foot discomfort, we take care of the whole person— focusing on both your physical state and emotional health.
When you visit us, you’re treated like family. Our compassionate team listens to your pain history, crafting a personalized treatment plan just for you. We’re here to restore your quality of life, and for many, relief begins with the first visit. Our dedication is unwavering— we don’t give up until you experience improvement.
We offer the widest range of treatment options in the region, from medication management and infusions to injections,
regenerative therapies, and even surgical solutions when necessary. By blending cuttingedge medical advances with our deeply personal approach, we ensure that if it hurts, we can help.
Come and experience care that’s different—care that’s centered around you, always with a smile.
13340 California St ., Suite 101
Omaha, NE 68164
402 614 1999 omahapainphysicians.com
OHN SLOWIACZEK OF Slowiaczek Albers & Whelan is extremely humbled by his designation as Omaha’s Best Family Law Lawyer for the fourth year in a row. Slowiaczek credits his success to the firm’s commitment to hard work and its heightened level of professionalism. He’s also grateful for the collaboration with his outstanding co-attorneys, Virginia Albers, Dennis Whelan, and Jacquelyn Warren.
Slowiaczek Albers & Whelan are experts in family law matters involving complex financial considerations. The firm helps clients navigate premarital agreements, business valuations, tax concerns, interplay with estate plans, and the many other issues that can arise in
high-net-worth divorces, all while maintaining the utmost confidentiality. Their experience makes them the soughtafter firm in Omaha when it comes to high-asset divorces.
Slowiaczek Albers & Whelan prioritizes a team-based approach to every case, ensuring that there are multiple professional eyes looking at each client’s case to work towards a resolution in the client’s best interest. Our attorneys make sure that clients understand all aspects of their divorce. Our attorneys guide their clients through this difficult process and ensure that their interests and their families are protected every step of the way.
9290 West Dodge Road, #100 Omaha, NE 68114
402.930.1000
saalawyers.com
EVENT PLANNING POSSIBILITIES are endless at The Granary, a mixed-use development in the heart of Ralston designed to elevate your social gatherings to new heights.
“Its mission is to provide the Metro’s premier, personally crafted, luxury experience that celebrates life and the joy of entertaining,” said Wayne Lallman, Partner & COO at I See It Ventures, Inc.
The roots of this remarkable event space date back to the early 1900s, when it served as an industrial grain storage and packaging facility for developing grocery stores across the Midwest. Today, this modernized space holds four venues, blending its rustic charm with a modern interior for a limitless range of event possibilities.
Among the four venues are two expansive indoor rooms––the
Crown Room and the Corbel Room. Connected by a common foyer, the two spaces can function together or separately, accommodating up to 450 guests when combined. This versatility makes it an ideal venue for a variety of occasions and guest counts, ranging from weddings and galas to fundraisers and corporate meetings. The Granary also features a bridal suite that perfectly encapsulates the rustic yet elegant feel of the venue along with an impressive outdoor balcony overlooking the Granary Green. Elevating the experience further, the venues partner with Abraham Catering, a full service caterer offering a selection of menus, packages and personalized services.
For outdoor affairs, the Granary Green beckons with its sprawling 14,000-square-foot space suitable for events such as concerts, festivals, and city gatherings. Equipped with a 27-foot
Reception Venue, Outdoor Entertainment Venue
LED screen, artificial turf, and extensive underground infrastructure, the Granary Green offers limitless opportunities for hosting and gathering with loved ones––exemplified by bocce ball tournaments and allseason-long Husker Tailgates and watch parties.
Bushwackers Dance Hall and Saloon, the largest country bar in Nebraska, stands just below The Granary’s event spaces. With a legacy spanning over three decades, the beloved Bushwackers attracts patrons from nearby towns such as Des Moines, Kansas City, and Sioux City. Lallman suggests extending your event by heading downstairs to ride the mechanical bull, join a line dance, and keep the celebration going.
Despite undergoing extensive renovations, The Granary preserves its original exposed brick walls, soaring ceilings, and aged
hardwood that has endured for over a century. The historical details on this state-of-the-art facility seamlessly blend modern and traditional styles, infusing the venue with unique architectural character. With four dynamic spaces and extensive customization options, events effortlessly reflect the distinct charm of the location itself.
5500 Granary PlazaSuite 101 Ralston, NE 68127
402.943.8387
atthegranary.com
UXURY MEETS SENIOR LIVING AT OVATION
Welcome to resort-style living in Omaha, where luxury meets senior living! Ovation Heartwood Preserve is where seniors explore, engage, and thrive.
Picture your retirement with multiple in-house restaurants, a 360 Rooftop Club, Route 6 Game Room featuring a golf simulator, indoor pool, wellness center, plus a concierge to help with anything you might need. This is life at one of Omaha’s newest senior living communities, Ovation Heartwood Preserve!
Our vibrant community offers Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care, so you can choose the option that fits your lifestyle. Our beautiful new Independent Living just opened summer of 2024!
“I needed this oxygen of people. And I think I made the right choice because of the tremendous respect for individuality here and to who we are.” – Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, Resident
Ovation innovates and evolves to provide what our residents want.
Our seniors spend their days enjoying social events, cooking classes, wine tastings, art classes, fitness classes, and off-site activities to explore Omaha.
Our restaurants feature resident favorites and new selections. Let your taste buds travel the world with our cuisines from Asia, France, Italy, and more. Enjoy a meal at Lorraine’s Kitchen, a quick bite at Bees Knees, a drink at Miller’s, or steak at our 1863 fine dining, open for special events.
Among Ovation’s unique offerings is Omaha’s first femaleonly memory care neighborhood, Meadowlark. Everything we do for our memory care residents is part of our Ovation Connections™ program, where we cultivate individualized care plans and services to empower residents’ physical, cognitive, emotional, and social health. This looks like hosting art activities for expression and motor skills, pet visits for comfort, musical activities to enhance memory and create a calm environment, using aroma for comfort, and circadian lighting for better sleep.
Our mission is “to enhance the life of every person we serve,” a core statement we live up to in every interaction and each service we provide at Ovation Heartwood Preserve.
This is your reward for a life well lived! Explore, engage, and thrive at Ovation Heartwood Preserve. Schedule your tour today at OvationHeartwoodPreserve.com.
470 Maxwell Plaza Omaha, NE 68164
402.999.7900
ovationheartwoodpreserve.com
Shining the spotlight on the innovative entrepreneurs and professionals who make Omaha...well, Omaha.
Omaha Magazine proudly presents FACES of Omaha, a publication that highlights innovative entrepreneurs and professionals in various areas of expertise who make Omaha the great city you know and love. This native advertising publication highlights a single expert, or FACE, in an industry and is created with the same high-quality design, photography, and storytelling that sets Omaha Magazine, and its related publications, apart. FACES of Omaha will be distributed to all Omaha Magazine subscribers, which means your FACE—and your story—will have an immense reach. Your portrait will be displayed professionally and personably on high-quality, glossy paper. Stake your claim as a leader and make a significant impact with this annual magazine.
MD West ONE has harnessed a network of the most advanced orthopedic, neurosurgery and spine surgeons in the region. MD West ONE’s surgeons specialize in surgical and non-surgical treatment of conditions and injuries affecting the entire musculoskeletal and nervous systems from head-to-toe.
MD West ONE is honored to be voted First Place Private Practice, First Place Orthopedic Surgeon, and First Place Neurosurgeon for 6 years in a row!
maha’s dining history is as rich and storied as the recipes that comprise them, with details and dishes from every country represented by our city’s diverse culture. The dining climate has changed significantly since the opening of Omaha’s first eating establishment in 1854, but the last 30 years are responsible for catapulting local chefs and their signature dishes to natio nal renown.
Not long ago, concepts like fig and prosciutto on pizza, fresh fish, vegetarian fare, or farmto-fork foods were foreign to local diners, and chain restaurants were truly starting see Omaha as a worthy place f or business.
The 1990s were prime time for Omaha’s beef industry, with steakhouses thriving in every destination neighborhood. Piccolo’s, Caniglia’s, Cascio’s, Anthony’s, Jerico’s, Johnny’s, and Gorat’s were the pinnacle of fine dining. Omaha’s Little Italy families were growing up, and second and third generations were taking over the family-owned establishments. Tradition was the name of the game, and diners were embracing the customs with open hearts and empt y stomachs.
Angie’s Steakhouse was known as much for its cuisine as it was for its crime scene. After taking over the former Trentino’s, Angie’s owner Barney Bonofede found himself in hot water over his ties to a Kansas City crime syndicate, and was indicted over illegal goings-on at the dining establishment. Meanwhile, The Drover was elevating the steakhouse experience and drawing in crowds from near and far. They claimed to offer one of the first salad bars in Omaha and a signature whiskeymarin ated steak.
While Omaha is still very much a red-meat town, as the aughts approached, tastes began
to change. Family-owned establishments, such as Bohemian Café and Gerda’s, were still dining destinations, but the culinarily curious began to expand their palates and seek finer fare.
An integral building block in the foundation of Omaha’s current food climate was the opening of Metropolitan Community College’s Institute for the Culinary Arts. If you can’t find a fine dining chef in your city, you can grow one from scratch. And MCC has done just that, churning out some of the Midwest’s most decorated experts in the field.
Recently, the blend of local fare and global cuisine Omaha has to offer has resulted in multiple James Beard Award nominations for area chefs, and kept Omaha high on the list of top dining destinations. Food and Wine Magazine cites both the traditional fare (namely the Reuben) and diners' embracing of modern cuisine for the town's place among the up-and-coming foodie cities of America. The website Livability sees local sourcing and accessibility to home-grown world class ingredients, as well as chef’s creative utilization of this access for our hi gh ranking.
With bushels of local innovation, there is no challenge area chefs can’t seem to overcome. Omaha Magazine is looking forward to watching the next 30 years of culinary evolution.
BREW PUB
Upstream Brewing Company
Kros Strain Brewing
Heavy Brewing
BRICK OVEN PIZZA
Pitch Pizzeria
Dante 16901 Wright Plaza danteomaha.com Via Farina
BUFFET
China Buffet Mongolian Grill Three locations chinabuffetmongoliangrill.net
HuHot Mongolian Grill
A+ Buffet Mongolian Grill
BURRITO
Fernando’s Cafe and Cantina 402-399-8006 • 402-330-5707 fernandosomaha.com
Abelardo’s Mexican Fresh Burrito Envy & Tequila Bar 402-614-0870 burritoenvy.com
CAKES
The Cake Gallery
The Cake Specialist 402-733-CAKE (2253) thecakespecialist.com
Dave’s Cakes of Omaha 531-466-3594 davescakesofomaha.com
CHEF IN OMAHA
Aleksiy Shalev - Omaha Country Club omahacc.org
Joel Hassanali - Salted EDGE
Michelle Alfaro - Sauced by Alfaro
CHIMICHANGA
La Mesa Mexican Restaurant
El Vallarta Mexican Restaurant 531-710-4710 elvallartamenu.com
Primo’s Modern Mexican 402-322-8141 primosmodernmexican.com
CHINESE
Golden Palace 402-493-2777
goldenpalaceomaha.net
Happy Buddha’s 531-300-2832
https://happybuddhasfood.com
531-466-2411
dirtydoughcookies.com
CUPCAKES
Smallcakes Cupcakery 402-934-3844
smallcakesomaha.com
Dave’s Cakes of Omaha 531-466-3594
davescakesofomaha.com
Gigi’s Cupcakes Omaha 402-991-9010 gigisomaha.com
Oscar’s
Ray’s Original Buffalo Wings 402-884-5300
Ted & Wally’s UltraPremium Ice Cream
Two locations tedandwallys.com
Coneflower Creamery
Graley’s Creamery & Confections
402-502-9897
graleyscreamery.com
The Jaipur Brewing Company
402-392-7331
jaipurindianfood.com
Kinaara Indian Cuisine
Star Indian Cuisine 531-867-3365
starindiancuisineomaha.com
Vincenzo’s
Hokkaido
Yoshitomo
Legends Patio Grill & Bar
Two locations legendspatiogrill.com
Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano
Paddy McGown’s Pub and Grill PASTA
Luigi’s Italian Restaurant
Mangia Italiana Via Farina PASTRY
Pettit’s Pastry
Two locations pettitspastryomaha.com
Grand Patisserie
TOUS les JOURS
Godfather’s Pizza 16 metro locations godfathers.com
Mama’s Pizza
Four locations in the Omaha Metro mamaspizzaomaha.com
Zio’s Pizzeria
Brother Sebastian’s Steakhouse
Farmer Brown’s Steak House
The Drover Steakhouse
402-391-7440
droverrestaurant.com
Mahogany Prime Steakhouse 402-445-4380
mahoganyprimesteakhouse.com
Cascio’s Steakhouse 402-345-8313
casciossteakhouse.com SUNDAY
ne of the most important and impactful decisions a parent will make for their children is where to raise them.
Omaha mother, author, and playwright Beaufield Berry said “Omaha is a place where I can build things and grow them, and my children get to see me thrive and achieve without having to sell myself short and succumb to the incessant grind just to make ends meet. I think it’s important for our children to see us achieve our dreams, and I get to do that here.”
Omaha and its surrounding suburbs have proven people can live, work, and play in a leader of hig her living.
With more than 250 public parks, 125 miles of walking and hiking trails, a half-dozen farmers markets, dozens of public pools and splash pads, and numerous yearly cultural festivals and fairs, the outdoors is always open for business. Omaha Parks and Recreation does an exceptional job of maintaining and updating outdoor areas, allowing residents to take advantage of the local flora during all fo ur seasons.
Children’s Hospital & Medical Center continues to lead the way in medical innovation, giving local families access to cutting-edge medicine, and a peace of mind that has parents traveling across the country, as well as internationally, for access to the minds making miracles happen. Other local medical facilities, such as Nebraska Medicine and CHI, also offer outstanding pediatr ic services.
Real Estate News ranks Omaha highly for its short commutes and low cost of living, allowing parents
to spend more time and money on their children. The strong job market, access to higher learning, and ease of work-life balance are also cited among the benefits of starting a family in any of Omaha’s diverse ne ighborhoods.
Since its founding in 1854, Omaha has been a destination for families of any educational background, and the same is true today. Not only is Omaha an ethnically and culturally diverse and inclusive environment, but the opportunities for those who seek them contin ue to grow.
Entertainment
Local venues offer family-friendly live theater, concerts, films, and cultural events year round, and draw visitors from outside the city limits to celebrate them. The Durham, Joslyn Art Museum, Strategic Air Command, Bemis Center for Contemporary Art, Kiewit Luminarium, and Omaha Children’s Museum have become can’t-miss attractions for out-of-town guests, and all have special events to keep offerings fresh for locals.
Education
STEM education for children and adults alike are offered by magnet schools and nonprofits, who believe that everyone should have a seat at the ever-expanding science and tech table. Organizations like Emerging Ladies Academy, AIM Institute, and Tech Omaha are making education accessible to all, while more than 15 area libraries host events to expand the knowledge of all w ho seek it.
No matter if one is in the planning stages of parenthood, or well into the grandparent season of life, Omaha families will find exciting opportunities around eve ry corner.
STORY BY SARA LOCKE // PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH LEMKE // DESIGN BY RENEE LUDWICK
BOWLING ALLEY
Maplewood Lanes 402-572-9393 maplewoodlanesomaha.com
Western Bowl
Spare Time Entertainment 402-378-9994
sparetimeentertainment.com/omaha
CHILD DAY CARE
Sprouting Minds
Child Development Center 402-504-3947
sproutingmindsdaycare.com
The Hills Montessori 402-884-8715 thehillsmontessoriomaha.com
Hamilton Heights Child Development Center
CHILD PARTY PROVIDER
The Amazing Pizza Machine 402-829-1777
amazingpizzamachine.com
Fairytale Omaha
Magical Moments Entertainment
CHILDREN’S ATTRACTION
Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
Omaha Children’s Museum
Kiewit Luminarium
CITY PARK
Gene Leahy Mall at the RiverFront Elmwood Park Memorial Park
Nebraska Dance Two locations nebraskadance.com
Bloom Dance Studio
Kitty Lee Dance Studio 402-493-6525 kittyleedance.com
MARTIAL ARTS
Championship Martial Arts 402-932-2999
martialartsomaha.com
American School of Karate & Judo Master Kim’s World Class TaeKwonDo
MOVIE THEATER
ACX Cinema 12+ ACX Aksarben Cinema
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
MUSIC LESSONS
School of Rock Omaha
SNJ Studio of Music
Omaha Conservatory of Music
PEDIATRIC DENTIST OFFICE
Smile Station Pediatric Dentistry 402-330-5535
omahakidsdentist.com
Children’s Dental Specialists Pedodontics, P.C.
PEDIATRICIAN
Lisa Whitcomb, M.D. - Heartland Family First Medical Clinic
Michael CohenVillage Pointe Pediatrics
Kelli Shidler - Boys Town Pediatrics 531-355-2300 6715 S. 180th St., Omaha NE 68135
gbhpreschool.com Hamilton Heights Child Development Center Brownell Talbot 402-556-3772 brownell.edu
veryone wants to look their best and feel even better. Countless indicators show that the health and beauty industry is thriving. According to market research company Numerator, the beauty sales sector was the fastest-growing among consumer sectors, increasing by 15.8% year-over-year as of year-end 2023. Similarly, ecommerce platform Shopify reported that the global health and wellness market continues to climb, reaching $5.5 trillion in 2023 and projected to rise to nearly $14 trill ion by 2032.
One factor that contributes to this ongoing growth is called the “lipstick effect,” the fact that even in times of economic downturn, consumers indulge in what they perceive to be small luxuries such as cosmetics and skin care while they cut back on more significant purchases. Shoppers may be unable to spend big, but they still manage to find room in the budget for a few small items. Economists noted this phenomenon as far back as World War I and the Great Depression, and again during subsequent wars and recessions.
Omaha has been home to some big beauty industry players in its history. Tip Top Products, which opened in North Omaha in the 1920s, patented a design for the Tip Top Easy Curler and produced hair curlers and similar products for decades. In 1968, Marianna Industries (now part of Cohere Beauty) began operations as a hair care formulator, manufacturer, and distributor, primarily for salons and cosmetology schools.
Smaller beauty businesses have also made their mark in the community’s history. For instance, salons including BeautyFirst and Creative Hair Design have been around since the 1980s. Other local health and beauty providers include spas and aesthetic clinics as well as services like massage, chiropractic care, and fitness or nutrition counseling. Multiple options are available all over the city and in nearly every category, and Omaha is keeping up with national
trends, including personalized wellness experiences fueled by detailed data, providing brands endorsed by respected industry influencers, and integrating smart technology.
Also adding to the boom is the amount consumers continue to spend on health care and wellness products, such as vitamins and natural health products. Reports note that people are likely to continue purchasing these items even as they tighten their belts in other areas. Like beauty items, self-care products may feel like a small investment that pays off in a psychological boost; beauty and wellness spending may elevate to the perceived level of necessity if it enhances mental health and well-being. Plus, as consumers must curb spending on entertainment or big-ticket items like vacations, they naturally find themselves with more time for self-care.
In good times or bad, the beauty, health, and wellness sector is also booming due to a broadening demographic that includes middle-aged consumers and even seniors. According to data and business intelligence company Statista, the estimated size of the global male personal care market is forecasted to grow more than $20 billion within the next five years.
The “lipstick effect” isn’t just about lipstic k anymore.
STORY BY KARA SCHWEISS // PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH LEMKE // DESIGN BY RENEE LUDWICK
ACUPUNCTURECHIROPRACTOR
Balanced Body Acupuncture & Chiropractic 402-932-8108
balancedbodyomaha.com
Komp Chiropractic and Acupuncture Clinic
Corey Chiropractic and Acupuncture
ACUPUNCTURE - LICENSED
Thirteen Moons Acupuncture 402-827-1355
thirteenmoonsacupuncture.com
River Point Acupuncture
EBOM Clinic
Dr. James FriedlanderAllergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates 402-391-1800
allergyasthmaimm.com
Ebrahim Shakir - Midwest Allergy and Asthma Clinic
Sara May - Nebraska Medicine
LovelySkin Store under the direction of Joel Schlessinger, MD 402-697-6565
LovelySkin.com/Retail
Beauty First Salon & Store Ulta Beauty
BODY CONTOURING
Westfield Plastic Surgery Center 402-578-0706
westfieldpsc.com
Joel Schlessinger, MD | Schlessinger MD 402-334-7546
SchlessingerMD.com/Cosmetics
Aesthetic Surgical Images
BREAST AUGMENTATION
Westfield Plastic Surgery Center 402-578-0706
westfieldpsc.com
Aesthetic Surgical Images
Omaha Face
CARDIOLOGIST OFFICE
Nebraska Methodist Health System
Nebraska Medicine
Clarkson Heart Center
CBD OIL STORE
CBD American Shaman
Grateful Green Hemp & THC Dispensary
42 Degrees
CHARITY WALK / FUN RUN
Out of the Darkness Community Walk
Breakthrough T1D Walk to Cure Arthritis
CHIROPRACTOR
Lyle Koca - Koca Chiropractic 402-809-5035 kocachiropractic.com
Gary Elsasser - Elsasser Chiropractic Chase L’Heureux, DCMillard Oaks Chiropractic
COSMETIC DENTIST
Daniel Beninato - Premier Dental
Jay Samuelson - The Dentists 402-445-4647 thedentistsomaha.com
Marty Matz - The Tooth Doc 402-397-8050 2thdoc.org
ENDODONTIST OFFICE
Midwest Endodontics
402-398-9887
mwestendo.com
Advanced Endodontic Therapy
University of Nebraska Medical Center
ESTHETICIAN
Kelly GuderjanAllure Health & Med Spa
Sarah Riddle - Enchanted Skin Studio Joey Lasher - LovelySkin 402-334-1226
LovelySkinSpa.com
Amanda KesterEssential Family Medicine
Joseph DumbaNebraska Methodist Health System
Kristin Simon - Functional Healthcare of Omaha 402-997-0772
functionalhealthcareofomaha.com
New Leaf Wellness 402-858-1855
newleafcenters.com/nebraska
Trillion Health & Hormone
Allure Health & Med
IV
HYDRATION SPA
LIVE Hydration Spa
Simply Bliss Med Spa & Wellness
Radiate Light Mobile IV Hydration
402-799-1722
radiatelightnebraska.com
LASER HAIR REMOVAL
Milan Laser Hair Removal
Joel Schlessinger, MD & LovelySkin Spa 402-334-7546 | 402-334-1226 SchlessingerMD.com/Hair
Ideal Image
LASIK EYE SURGERY
Omaha Eye & Laser Institute 402-493-2020
omahaeye.com
Kugler Vision
Vance Thompson Vision
LOCAL PHARMACY
Medicine Man Pharmacy
Elmwood Pharmacy
Consonus Pharmacy
LONG TERM REHABILITATION FACILITY
Brookestone Village 402-614-4000 brookestonevillage.com
The Lighthouse by Immanuel
Newport House by Immanuel
MALE HORMONE REPLACEMENT CLINIC
New Leaf Wellness 402-858-1855
newleafcenters.com/nebraska
Limitless Male Medical Clinic
Mantality Health
At Endless Journey we encompass the holistic philosophy in that the client and their family will be nourished physically, emotionally, and spiritually as they prepare for end of life and beyond.
Endless Journey seeks to partner with families as they navigate life limiting illness to provide whole person care that empowers the family goals of physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing.
Endless Journey is a locally owned and controlled hospice. We serve hospice patients of all ages - from newborn to centenarians and everyone in between. We have a robust volunteer program, music and massage therapy, grief groups open to the community at large, and offer meal support for qualifying families taking care of their loved ones at home. We are known for recognizing that each of our patients and their families are unique in their needs and hopes for their end-oflife journey.
MICRONEEDLING
Allure Health & Med Spa Omaha Face Sakoon The Spa
NEUROLOGIST OFFICE
Neurology Consultants of Nebraska Nebraska Medicine
Boys Town Pediatric Neurology 531-355-7420
Three locations in the Omaha Metro
NEUROSURGEON
John Treves - MD West ONE
Bradley Bowdino - MD West ONE
Stephen Doran - MD West ONE
NUTRITION & VITAMIN STORE
Hurley’s No Name Nutrition Market Two locations nonamenutrition.com
Elite Nutrition Omaha Nutrishop
OBSTETRICIAN OFFICE
Mid-City OB-GYN
Omaha OB/GYN Associates, P.C. Associates in Womens Health 402-697-7200 awhomaha.com
ONCOLOGIST OFFICE
Nebraska Cancer Specialists Nebraska Methodist Health System Oncology Associates, P.C.
OPHTHALMOLOGIST / EYE SURGEON
Brandon BaartmanVance Thompson Vision
David IngvoldstadMidwest Eye Care, P.C.
Michael Goldsteinilumin Eye Care Center
OPTOMETRIST
Marsha KubicaOmaha Primary EyeCare 402-330-3000 omahaeyecare.com
David MichaelsMillard Family Eyecare 402-896-3300 / 402-330-3063 millardfamilyeyecare.com Jeff Brewer - Legacy Eyecare
ORAL SURGEON
Michael ShnayderVillage Pointe Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center
Steve CoffeyOral Surgery Associates
John Wewel - Midwest Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center
ORTHODONTIST
Dr. Brian McIntyre, Dr. Michael Morrison, Dr. Alaina Allen, and Dr. Leslie EllingsonOmaha Orthodontics 402-333-5087 omahaorthodontics.com
Taera KimMetro West Orthodontics
Daniel ChartrandChartrand Orthodontics 402-330-1152 chartrandortho.com
ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON
Kathleen Grier - MD West ONE
John McCarthy - MD West ONE Ryan Arnold - OrthoNebraska
PAIN MANAGEMENT
Momenta Pain Care 402-991-6559 momentapaincare.com Omaha Pain Physicians 402-614-1999 omahapainphysicians.com West Omaha Cryotherapy
PULMONOLOGIST OFFICE
Nebraska Methodist Health System
Nebraska Pulmonary Specialties
Children’s Nebraska Pulmonary Medicine
SHORT TERM REHABILITATION FACILITY
Brookestone Village 402-614-4000
brookestonevillage.com
Old Mill Rehabilitation 402-934-7500
oldmillrehab.com
Hillcrest Health Services
SLEEP APNEA TREATMENT
Advanced Dental Sleep Treatment Center
Total Respiratory 402-281-4404
Five locations in the Omaha Metro
Focus Respiratory
SUBSTANCE ABUSE REHABILITATION
Santa Monica House Four locations santamonicahouse.org
Valley Hope
Stephen Center
TANNING SALON
Palm Beach Tan Nine locations palmbeachtan.com
Shine Tanning Solutions
Sun Tan City
TATTOO PARLOR
Big Brain
402-342-2885 bigbrainomaha.com
Black Squirrel Tattoo 402-885-TAT2 (8282) blacksquirrelomaha.com
Liquid Courage
TUMMY TUCK
Westfield Plastic Surgery Center
402-578-0706
westfieldpsc.com
Aesthetic Surgical Images Omaha Face
Totally Vein
Vascular & Interventional Specialists WAXING /
Waxing The City
Joel Schlessinger, MD & LovelySkin Spa
402-334-7546 | 402-334-1226
SchlessingerMD.com/Hair
WEIGHT
New
newleafcenters.com/nebraska
topformtelehealth.com
Aspire Health 402-230-7166
aspirehealth.care
InVita Health & Wellness 402-522-6877
invitahealthandwellnessomaha.com
We really mean it! The patients and families that make up our community are simply the best. That’s why it means so much that you voted us Best of Omaha.
BEST OF OMAHA WINNERS
Boys Town Behavioral Health
Boys Town Ear, Nose & Throat
Kelli Shidler, M.D.
Boys Town Pediatrician
Boys Town Pediatric Neurology
Whether it’s a routine checkup with our award-winning pediatricians, a session with our compassionate counselors or specialized treatment from our highly trained specialists, it is our honor to serve your healthcare needs. We promise to continue to provide the best care for years to come.
To find a Boys Town pediatrician, specialist or clinic near you, visit boystownhospital.org.
Congratulations to Boys Town’s Best of Omaha Winners
maha has expanded in several ways since its inception in 1854, and that includes housing. The past 30 years have seen growth in all areas and aspects of the city, including businesses, transportation, and city limits. According to the United States Census Bureau, the population of the Omaha metropolitan area in 1995 was about 586,000 people, while in 2020 it was numbered at over 967,000. This swelling number has, logically, brought forth a demand for more homes.
Add to this the swelling number of home prices. According to the National Association for Realtors, the average price of an abode in 1995 was $114,600. Even adjusted for inflation, the average price of a place to live has increased almost $60,000. One reason (although certainly not the only reason) is because of house size. In 1995, the largest number of dwellings in Omaha ranged from 1,000 to 1,499 square feet, a statistic that’s left in the dust by the median square footage in 2024 2,236 feet.
There are several reasons why homeowners and builders keep expanding their blueprints. The last few decades have seen significant developments in technology, building strategy, and usage in the housing market. The shift toward sustainable building materials also began, and is still a hot trend in the housing market. Many people now opt for more eco-friendly products in all markets, and that includes residential. Many new-house builders are conscious of the tools they use, with popular materials including bamboo, recycled plastic, mass timber, and precast concrete. By using a smaller carbon footprint, homes are free to expand in size without danger to the environment.
Omahans are becoming more comfortable in their residences, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic, during which many were forced to remain indoors. The option
to work from one’s habitation also became a norm as a result of this, leading to people not spending the majority of a day in a company office, but rather in their own workspace. This led to a significant increase in the preference for home offices to provide owners a specific space to focus on profess ional tasks.
Some popular uses of extra space include expanded kitchens and bathrooms, nurseries, gaming rooms, personal bars, and extra gathering spaces like great rooms. Homeowners today are able to customize their houses to meet their desires for space usage. One buyer may need a large kitchen and family room for hosting parties, while another may look for more divided rooms to use as specific areas for recreation or children’s needs. Each of these expansions mean more work for home builders, and more services for those who work on people’s personal spaces, such as painters, designers, and bathroom renovators.
And it isn’t just the residence itself that has expanded. Lawns and green spaces have also expanded with the blueprints of the houses. This means a bigger need for lawn services, for snow removal services , and more.
No matter how it’s cut, there are choices for everyone in Omaha, an ever-expanding home base.
STORY BY CLAUDIA MOOMEY // PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH LEMKE // DESIGN BY RENEE LUDWICK
CONCRETE INSTALLER
Moore’s Concrete Construction, Inc.
402-491-3622
mooresconcrete.com
Oxford Construction Co.
402-670-0310
oxfordconstructionco.com
Sam The Concrete Man 402-265-0044
aksarben.samtheconcreteman.com
COUNTERTOPS
McKean’s Floor to Ceiling
402-331-4062 mckeans.com
Triton Stone Group
CUSTOM CABINETRY
Cabinet Design Studio
531-301-9550
cabinetsomaha.com
Titan Custom Cabinets, Inc.
402-891-0098
titancustomcabinets.net
CUSTOM CLOSETS
Storage Concepts, Inc. 402-592-7752
storageconceptsinc.com
Incontro Closets & Cabinetry
Closet Factory 402-697-3600
closetfactoryneb.com
CUSTOM HOME BUILDER
Curt Hofer & Associates
402-758-0440
curthofer.com
Tackett Company
McNeil Company
DECORATIVE CONCRETE
Oxford Construction Co.
402-670-0310
oxfordconstructionco.com
Schroder Concrete
RME Concrete
GARAGE DOORS
Omaha Door & Window
402-733-6440
omahadoor.com
Overhead Door Company of Omaha Spring Kings Omaha 402-490-6210
springkingsomaha.com
GARAGE FLOORING
Garage Revolution
402-999-6288
garage-revolution.com
Hello Garage of Omaha
The Garage Floor Company
GARAGE ORGANIZATION
Hello Garage of Omaha
Platinum Garage Solutions
Garage Living 402-506-6601
garageliving.com/omaha
GARDEN NURSERY STORE
Lanoha Nurseries
Mulhall’s
Robert’s Nursery
402-551-3654 robertslln.com
GROUT & TILE REPAIR
The Grout Doctor
Reed’s Custom Tile 402-819-3912
reedscustomtilene.com
The Grout Medic
GUTTERS LeafGuard
402-835-4824 leafguard.com
The Brothers That Just Do Gutters 402-819-6688
brothersgutters.com/ omaha-lincoln-ne
LeafFilter Gutter Protection
INDOOR WINDOW COVERINGS
Custom Blinds & Design
All About Blinds Inc
402-431-9999 blindsomaha.com
Ambiance Window Coverings 402-932-9711
ambiancewindowcoverings.com
INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM
The Designers 402-498-8777 designersomaha.com
Interiors Joan and Associates
402-330-0685 interiorsbyjoan.com
The Interior Design Firm
INTERIOR DESIGNER
Marilyn Schooley HansenThe Designers 402-498-8777
designersomaha.com
Lester Katz - LK Design 402-934-8088 lkdesign.biz
Kris PattonInteriors Joan and Associates 402-330-0685 interiorsbyjoan.com
KITCHEN & BATH PLUMBING FIXTURES
Kitchens & Baths by Briggs 402-330-3400 kbbriggs.com
Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery
Omaha Winnelson Company
KITCHEN REMODELING CKF
Gitt Construction 402-740-9551
gittdbr.com
DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen 402-614-9400
dreammaker-remodel.com/omaha
Heartland Lawns
402-492-8800
heartlandlawns.com
Curb Curb
402-577-0699 curbcurb.net
Curbit Concrete Curbing & Borders LANDSCAPE
Patera Landscaping 402-706-5679
pateralandscaping.com
Robert’s Nursery
402-551-3654 robertslln.com
Natural
NaturalNightscapes.com
LANDSCAPE ROCK & GRANITE
Maple 85 402-397-8278
maple85.com
Sun Valley Landscaping
The Rock Place
LANDSCAPING SERVICE
Mulhall’s
Robert’s Nursery 402-551-3654 robertslln.com
Omaha Backyard Living 402-936-1258
omahaturf.com
LAWN CARE
Heartland Lawns
402-492-8800
heartlandlawns.com
Bill-Mar Lawn + Landscape 402-895-6979
billmarlawns.com
Monahan Lawn Care & Property Services 402-320-2358 monahanlawncare.com
LAWN IRRIGATION &SPRINKLERS
Millard Sprinkler
402-894-1199
millardsprinkler.com
Quality Irrigation 402-672-9297
quality-irrigation.com
Nature’s Helper 402-334-2625 natureshelperinc.com
MORTGAGE
Eagle Mortgage 402-397-7180
eaglemortgagecompany.com
Mortgage Specialists 402-991-5153
mtg-specialists.com
Marti
402-936-1258
omahaturf.com
402-630-0050
martineely.com
Upscale
PAINTING
Gerst Painting Inc
402-289-1010
gerstcontracting.com
Superb Painting, Siding and More
JP Painting
402-345-1861
jppainting@cox.net PEST
Lien Termite & Pest Control
402-397-8884
lienpestcontrol.com
ABC Termite & Pest Control
402-572-6070
abctermite-pest.com
Professional Termite & Pest Control
PLUMBING SERVICES
Burton
402-207-2138
justcallburton.com
Eyman Plumbing Heating & Air
402-235-6474
trusteyman.com
Backlund Plumbing 402-341-0450
backlundplumbing.com
402-330-5610
classicpoolandspaomaha.com
Remodel Nebraska
402-999-4595
remodel-ne.com
Omaha Door & Window
402-733-6440
omahadoor.com
Reed’s Custom Tile
402-819-3912
reedscustomtilene.com
Phillips Tile & Stone
402-681-3575
phillipstilestone.com
Midtown Tile 402-871-3678
midtowntile.com
It’s what we help you do. At Curt Hofer & Associates, we sit down to take in every idea you have—your sketches, your pins, your daydreams—to create a home perfectly tailored to the way you live. We’ll balance your wishlist with what’s functional for a timeless design complete with high-end finishes.
Contact us today to begin the process of working together on your inspired living space. Because even after 30 years of building high-end custom homes, one-of-a-kind is still possible.
maha has become a giant metropolis in the last three decades. People who return to Omaha after time away, or who may have only heard of Omaha as the home of Omaha Steaks (and therefore, perhaps, a lot of cows?) might experience cul ture shock.
The growth that has taken place in Omaha over the last 30 years is like a scene out of a trippy sci-fi movie: Buildings have risen where there had previously only been grass or corn fields.
This growth has contributed to many new, trendy establishments in which to drink and dance there are now even CBD d ispensaries.
Yet, one thing remains the same: Omaha still knows how to have a good time--now more than ever.
Back in the 1990s, the options of places to go and people to see were limited there were entertainment hubs like the downtown/Old Market area, Dundee, and the Benson area. Beyond 72nd Street, the majority of options were chain restaurants where one could pop in for an appletini and pronounce “Thank goodness i t’s Friday!”
And then, in an almost blink-and-you-missed-it, sleight of hand magic trick, Village Pointe seemed to rise out of nowhere. With a new sushi house, a movie theater and several other boutiques, bars, and restaurants, it’s no wonder that people began venturing out to 168th Street in 2004.
Moving forward, new entertainment hubs just seemed to sprout everywhere.
In fact, at this point in time, Omaha probably has more cultural and social hubs than one could count on both hands.
Aksarben Village may not be quite as new as some of the others, but it still offers folks of Omaha many options for fun and great eats.
Speaking of tasty treats and drinks, Omaha’s Blackstone District, which began in the1920s, is home of the classic Reuben sandwich. That’s worth the price of admission right there. Additionally, Blackstone District houses several award-winning beer bars and plenty of tequila t o go around.
North Omaha, the birthplace of civil rights leader Malcolm X, is a place of rich music history, featuring iconic Black musicians such as Duke Ellington and Count Basie.
South O., known as a “melting pot,” offers the trendy Little Bohemia and owes much of its lasting culture to immigrants from all over the world who helped make it the special place it is.
Midtown Crossing allows visitors to eat and grab a drink, as well as hang outside and bask i n the grass.
And lest we not forget North Downtown, or “NoDo,” with its urban chic and wondrous movie theater that plays the classics, as well as more recent, avant garde, independent films, for all those cinephiles out there.
Thirty years is a long time, but Omaha has come a long way, baby. The City of Omaha speaks for itself, and after 30 years of development, definitely deserves the moniker “Th e Big O!.”
etailers all over the U.S. will be in the spotlight the day after Thanksgiving Black Friday the biggest shopping day of the year. Small, local retailers now get special attention on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, or Small Business Saturday, an effort introduced in 2010 to stimulate sales in response to an economic recession. Small Business Saturday has continued with support and resources from organizations like the National Small Business Alliance, American Independent Business Alliance, and the National Retail Federation, which estimates that 98% of all retail companies employ fewer than 50 people.
The Omaha area is home to 45,000 businesses, according to the Greater Omaha Chamber. These include not only the headquarters of several Fortune 500 and Fortune 1000 companies, but also a spectrum of small retailers from businesses with multiple storefronts to single, small mom-and-pop shops. Analysts from the Greater Omaha Chamber show that for every $100 spent at a local retail business, $48 stays in the local economy, compared to only $14 for a retail chain.
“To put it simply, buying local keeps our money in Omaha. When we support local businesses, we are investing in our community,” said greater Omaha Chamber Vice President of Marketing & Communications Aron Wehr. “In the Greater Omaha area, we prioritize fostering an environment where small businesses are able to thrive and expand.”
Unique shops are peppered throughout the metro area and in shopping and lifestyle centers, starting from the Old Market and Capitol District to South Omaha and North Omaha in the eastern part of the city. Midtown, Blackstone, Dundee, Benson and Aksarben Village are options nearer the city’s center, and shoppers going further west will find local retailers in centers such as Countryside Village, Regency Shopping Center, Shops of Legacy, Westroads Mall, Village Pointe, and Nebrask a Crossing.
To find local retailers, Wehr recommended the Chamber’s member directory, which includes more than 3,000 businesses, a vailable at omahachamber.or g/directory.
“Here, you can explore for yourself which local business or entrepreneurs can support your needs ,” he said.
In addition to the local economic benefits, patronizing locally owned business reduces a shopper’s carbon footprint, builds community, stimulates local employment opportunities and usually offers the shopper personable customer service and some one-of-a-kind products. Local retailers also are often a must-see destination for visitors to the community, which creates an important source of revenue for businesses, and in the near future, Eppley Airfield will make it easier for travelers and local businesses to connect as part of the airport’s $950 million expansion project. In September, the Omaha Airport Authority shared a list of dining and retail concessions that will be introduced when the renovated expanded terminal opens in 2027; nine are local to Omaha, and the new cohort of shops and restaurants will feature 22 local products.
STORY BY KARA SCHWEISS // PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH LEMKE // DESIGN BY RENEE LUDWICK
POPCORN
Vic’s Corn Popper Four locations
vicspopcornomaha.com Just Pop’d Huskerland Popcorn
QUILTING & YARN SHOP
Fabric Bash 402-884-2096 fabricbash.com
Personal Threads Boutique 402-391-7733 personalthreads.com
Country Sampler
RETAIL ART GALLERY
Lewis Art Gallery 402-391-7733 lewisartgallery.com
Artists’ Cooperative Gallery
Debra Joy Groesser Fine Art 402-592-6552
debrajoygroesserfineart.com
SHOPPING CENTER
Nebraska Crossing Outlets Village Pointe Westroads Mall
SPORTING GOODS STORE SCHEELS
Dick’s Sporting Goods Cabela’s
SWEET SHOP
Hollywood Candy Chocolaterie Stam 402-933-7826 stamchocolate.com
Old Market Candy Shop
ome might say 2024 sits squarely within the age of convenience. How people locate and consume services has rapidly evolved within the last three decades. Considering what services were offered (and how people consumed them) in the Omaha area 30 years ago as opposed to nowadays is an eye-opening revelation of how quickly thi ngs change.
Many people living in 1995 had not heard of email, or were just getting their first email address and hearing the loud dial tone of starting AOL to receive a message from a friend. The entire industry known as “online” was in its infancy, as were i ts services.
The ancient practice of matchmaking evolved into something new in the mid-1990s with the creation of online dating. A far cry from the modern-day dating apps, the sometimes clunky dating websites were far from perfect and not nearly as customizable as they eventually became with time.
Still, many people today prefer a personal, curated experience, making classic matchmaking services attractive and potentially more efficient than scrolling through the sea of singles populating the modern dating apps.
Banking has also experienced a dramatic evolution when compared to 30 years ago. The 1990s introduced online banking and consumers began to embrace credit cards (and credit card debt!). In fact, it wasn’t until around the mid-1990s that merchants started widely accepting credit and debit cards for payment. Up until that point, it was primarily cash or checks for buying things--a far cry from the swift payment methods made today for in-person purchases.
Online trading was in its infancy 30 years ago. And though there was a big push in the 1990s
to deregulate the banking industry, far more banking regulations exist now than did 30 years ago, making it a prudent idea to seek help from knowledgeable financial services professionals when navigating things like investing, retirement planning, and lega cy planning.
The first initial pubic offering (IPO) for an assisted living company was in 1994. Now a billion-dollar industry, assisted living wasn’t as commonplace 30 years ago as it is in the modern day. Assisted living has been available in the Omaha metro since the early 1990s, but has grown quickly, following alongside nation al trends.
The boom of assisted living facilities in the 1990s brought with it some concerns on the quality of care residents received. Nowadays, assisted living facilities in the state are regulated by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services and facilities compete to offer boutique services to attract new clients, such as bistro dining, pickleball courts, fitness facilities, and concierge services. The right assisted living can help residents feel as though they’re at a resort.
Considering how 30 years ago, repair shops were servicing VCRs, Gameboys, CD players, film cameras, pagers, and flip phones prompts a pause to wonder what types of items will proliferate repair shops in the future. It’s a fair assumption that Omaha services will look quite different in 30 years from today and the services of the 1990s will undoubtedly feel even more archaic.
STORY BY TAMSEN BUTLER // PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH LEMKE // DESIGN BY RENEE LUDWICK
Berger, Elliott & Pritchard CPAs
ADULT
360 Community Services
New Cassel Retirement Center 402-393-2277 newcassel.org
Elite Disability Services of Nebraska 402-671-2041 elitedds.org
ASSISTED
Clare Senior Advisors
402-990-6994 claresenioradvisors.com
Assisted Living Locators
Simple Senior Solutions 402-990-0341 sssmidwest.com
planit inc.
402-333-3062
planitincevents.com
402 Events 402-964-2244
402eventservices.com
Divine Events by Rayna 402-321-5418
divineeventsbyrayna.com
John SlowiaczekSlowiaczek Albers & Whelan
402-928-2007
saalawyers.com
Christopher Vacanti - Vacanti Shattuck Finocchiaro Attorneys 402-235-6070
vsfamilylaw.com
Angela Dunne - Koenig | Dunne
Northwestern Mutual
Trinity Financial Group 402-502-1225
trinityne.com
Financial
Roeder Mortuaries
402-496-9000
roedermortuary.com
Heafey Hoffman
Dvorak Cutler Mortuaries
John A. Gentleman Mortuaries Four locations in the Omaha Metro johnagentleman.com
Ton’s Hauling Bin
ldstrategies.com Gallner & Pattermann, P.C. 712-323-0999 gplawyers.com
Celebrating ONE Immanuel
Art & Soup - Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) March 9, 2025
vnatoday.org/events/art-soup
ICAN Women’s Leadership Conference
NURSING
Brookestone Village 402-614-4000 brookestonevillage.com
The Lighthouse by Immanuel Newport House by Immanuel
Ovation Heartwood Preserve 402-999-7900
ovationheartwoodpreserve.com
TJ PattermanGallner & Patterman, P.C. 712-323-0999 gplawyers.com
Tim O’BrienHauptman, O’Brien, Wolf & Lathrop
Frank Younes - High & Younes LLC 402-933-3345 HYattorneys.com
NP Dodge
Lisa Ritter - RE/MAX Results
402-612-2413
RittersSellOmaha.com
Karen Jennings - BHHS 402-290-6296 karenjennings.bhhsamb.com
Chad BlytheBlythe Real Estate Team 402-960-2330 buyingomaha.com RECEPTION
A View Venues
The Granary 402-943-8387 atthegranary.com
Founders One • Nine 402-558-3272 foundersomaha.com
Papillion Sanitation
South Farm Containers 402-510-3129
southfarmcontainers.com
redbox+ Dumpsters 402-251-2211
redboxplus.com/omaha
For those who voted for Trinity Financial Group, thank you! Your confidence is truly the best award we could receive. We’re excited to continue serving our friends and neighbors across the Omaha metro with the independent financial strategies they deserve.
For those who voted for Trinity Financial Group, thank you! Your confidence is truly the best award we could receive. We’re excited to continue serving our friends and neighbors across the Omaha metro with the independent financial strategies they deserve.
About Trinity Financial Group
Bringing 75 years of combined experience crafting relationship-based financial strategies to your retirement.
About Trinity Financial Group
Bringing 75 years of combined experience crafting
financial strategies to your retirement.
Bringing 75 years of combined experience crafting relationship-based financial strategies to your retirement.
We believe that building retirement futures begins with building strong relationships. From your first visit to years into retirement, it’s our mission to provide the personalized, one-on-one service you deserve and need to live with confidence and clarity during your best years yet.
We believe that building retirement futures begins with building strong relationships. From your first visit to years into retirement, it’s our mission to provide the personalized, one-on-one service you deserve and need to live with confidence and clarity during your best years yet.
Bringing 75 years of combined experience crafting relationship-based financial strategies to your retirement.
We believe that building retirement futures begins with building strong relationships. From your first visit to years into retirement, it’s our mission to provide the personalized, one-on-one service you deserve and need to live with confidence and clarity during your best years yet.
Swing by today to experience the difference relationship-based retirement strategies can make for you!
Swing
We believe that building retirement futures begins with building strong relationships. From your first visit to years into retirement, it’s our mission to provide the personalized, one-on-one service you deserve and need to live with confidence and clarity during your best years yet.
Swing by today to experience the difference relationship-based retirement strategies can make for you! There’s good. There’s better. Then there’s
Swing by today to experience the difference relationship-based retirement strategies can make for you!
mong the things that make the U.S. unique is the born-in urge Americans have to move. From Manifest Destiny to the moon and “Smoky and the Bandit” to “Easy Rider,” the lure of seeing what’s over the next hill is part of our national DNA. Francis Scott Key may have penned the national anthem, but Willie Nelson pegged us right when he sang, “I can’t wait to get on the road again.”
Nebraska embodies this spirit better than any other state, per moneygeek.com, which earlier this year ranked the Cornhusker State the best in the country to drive in based on a composite of cost (ranked second), congestion (third), infrastructure (ninth), safety (18th) and weather (20th). Kansas placed a distant second and North Dakota was third. Nebraska motorists also improved their reputation for highway politeness this year; Forbes Advisor ranked Cornhuskers 38th on the list of states with the most confrontational drivers, a fivespace improvement over 2023.
The state achieved these high marks despite being a top 10 state in vehicles on the road per capita. According to Forbes Advisor, 95% of households in the state own at least one vehicle, ranking it eighth in the nation, three percentage points over the nation al average.
Feeding that demand is an impressive number of car lots. Stacker reported that in 2022, Nebraska was sixth nationally in the number of used car dealers and growing, with 12.39 dealers per 100,000 residents, an increase of nearly 4% year over year.
It also doesn’t hurt that Nebraska enjoys one of the lowest cost of vehicle ownership rates in the country. Forbes Advisor reported the average consumer pays just over $35,000 for a used vehicle and about $1,700 annually for full coverage insurance, ranking Nebraska among the top 10 states for af fordability.
Nebraskans’ love affair with vehicles is rooted in practicality. The Cornhusker State boasts about 96,000 miles of highways and public roads, per the Nebraska Department of Roads, including 482 miles of Interstate 80, one of the two most heavily traveled transcontinental highways in the United States. On any given non-summer day, 15,000 vehicles pass by the Interstate’s midway point, a number that surges to 20,000 daily during vacat ion season.
The state’s vast rural stretches also help inform Cornhuskers’ vehicle choices. For the past two years running, the Chevrolet Silverado pickup has topped the list of most popular vehicles purchased by Nebraskans, per Visual Capitalist (2022) and Edmunds (2023). In fact, Edmunds reported four of the top five sales leaders last year were pickups after Chevy came the Ford F150, Ram series and GMC Sierra, respectively and the fifth was an SUV (Jeep Grand Cherokee).
On the other end of the spectrum are electric vehicles, and Nebraskans are a tough sell. Forbes Advisor reported the Cornhusker State all but ignored EVs in 2023, with just 0.2 percent of new car purchases coming from that category. This tied five other states for 40th in the nation next to last in sales.
STORY BY DWAIN HEBDA // PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH LEMKE // DESIGN BY RENEE LUDWICK
Dingman’s
by Otis Twelve
o, what was the best day o f your life?
It is a phrase we toss around, sometimes a bit too offhandedly. “Best day of my life!” we say, even though we are in the middle of our lives, or near the beginning, middle, or yetto-be-determined ending mathematically speaking and still might go on to top that day which, in that sudden bright moment, we so confidently declare to be the best.
It's almost a tradition to answer, when asked, “What was the best day of your life?” with, “The day my kid was born.” This is easy to say if you are the male part of the equation, who avoided the pain of labor and delivery, or if, later in life, that kid bought you a house as a thank-you for all the bail money you shelled out over the years. Some respond, “Best day?
The day we were married.” Though that can be a bit subjective depending on the number of marriages involved. I mean how many “best days” are we allowed?
I once saw a video of a fisherman pulling in a beautiful rainbow trout from a crystal-clear stream in Montana on a Brandin split-cane rod with a Bauer RVR reel, using a greased leader and a Nymph with a pink streamer. There he was in his thousand-dollar Simms G4Z Stockingfoot waders and Tilley hat, with a LL Bean wicker tackle basket and deer antler and walnut fishing net, celebrating his victory over the 30-pound trophy as he walked towards the Hughes Cayuse light helicopter that had dropped him into the nearly inaccessible stretch of virgin water on the Big Hole River, and pumped a fist in the air declaring, “Best day of my life!” I just couldn’t help but add up the tab for all his accoutrements including the chopper, field kitchen, guide, and insect repellant; I then realized the guy had a few financial “best days” prior to this little wee kend outing.
In my own life, I remember more than one hot July evening spent with my German grandfather on the east fork of the Des Moines River near Algona, Iowa. Grandpa really wasn’t a fisherman in the sense that he did not bring his city-kid grandson out to the river for sport. We were there to get some food. Our “tackle” included some plastic line, lead weights, bobbers, hooks, and a jar of homemade “stink bait.” Wading a ball of stink bait up around our hooks we set our lines, and, in the course of an end of day, early night session pulled in 40, or 50, two-pound Bullheads. What is “stink bait,” you ask? Well, let me just say it is exactly what the name suggests, and you simply do not want to know what the recipe is, or what fragrance it is that gives this concoction the consistency of hot PlayDough its name. Trust me. What are “Bullheads,” you ask? Well, they are the absolute lowest level of catfish, tricky to clean with yellow fat and spines that have to be avoided carefully, and you simply do not want to know why the waste parts are sold to mink rancher s. Trust me.
I remember getting back to the farm via an International Harvester pickup truck with three-on-the-tree gearshift rather than a helicopter and then sitting with Grandpa, while he chewed his Day’s Work plug, cleaning the three or four dozen “trash” fish for a fry scheduled for the next day, neighbors included. Bullheads are so tasty when they are fried fresh with your Grandma’s batter recip e. Trust me.
Best day of my life.
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Congratulations on the nominees and winners. You make Omaha a great place to live.
Best Cosmetic Surgeon: 26 years in a row!
Joel Schlessinger MD - First Place 2025
Best Dermatologist: 14 years in a row!
Joel Schlessinger MD - First Place 2025
Best Local Website: 11 years in a row!
LovelySkin.com - First Place 2025
Best Beauty Supply Store: 11 years in a row!
LovelySkin Retail Store - First Place 2025
Best Med Spa: 11 years in a row!
LovelySkin Spa - First Place 2025
Best Body Contouring: 2 years in a row! Joel Schlessinger MD - Winners’ Circle 2025
Best Laser Hair Removal: 5 years in a row!
Joel Schlessinger MD - Winners’ Circle 2025
Best Waxing/Hair Removal: 5 years in a row!
LovelySkin Spa - Winners’ Circle 2025
Best Aesthetician: First year!
LovelySkin Spa - Winners’ Circle 2025