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👀 A historic first for Nebraska schools is happening this fall

👀 A historic first for Nebraska schools is happening this fall

Plus: A peek inside the $26M streetcar facility, classic Father's Day weekend spots, and more.

June 18, 2026

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Father’s Day weekend is here, and there’s plenty of ways to celebrate the people who make this place feel like home. Sharing a classic steak dinner, catching a ballgame at Charles Schwab, wandering a farmers market, or enjoying a night of music together?

Beyond the weekend plans, this Scoop is a reminder of what makes Omaha special: the mix of traditions we hold onto and the new chapters we’re building. From a restaurant serving memories for generations, to a new school creating opportunity, to a streetcar project bringing the city closer together, there’s a lot to be proud of!

🎓 A milestone for North Omaha's girls

The Gist: Identity Preparatory Academy will open this fall at 20th and Burdette as Nebraska’s first state-sanctioned, Black-founded school. Because the nonpublic academy receives no federal funding, Dr. Phillips is raising $250,000 to keep tuition affordable and is hosting a "Building HER Future" Fundraiser Luncheon on Friday, July 24, 2026, at The Venue at Highlander to support the launch.

Why It Matters: This academy is a beautiful addition to our local neighborhood, giving our young girls a dedicated space to build lifelong confidence. It is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we lift each other up right here in our own backyard.

🚋 Mayor Ewing tours the streetcar's $26M new home

The Gist: Mayor John Ewing led a tour Monday, June 8, of the Omaha Streetcar's roughly $26 million maintenance facility on the city's eastern edge, along Riverfront Drive east of 8th Street. The 30,000-square-foot building will house, wash, and service the six streetcars that will eventually run along the 3.2-mile route connecting downtown, Midtown, and UNMC.

Why It Matters: This is the first physical streetcar building most residents will see finished. With service still targeted for 2028, the facility is a useful sign of real progress on a project that has caused real headaches for downtown businesses.

🥃 Old-school whiskey steaks and vintage vibes

2121 S 73rd St, Omaha

The Drover has been perfecting the legendary whiskey-marinated steak over an open flame since 1977. Low wood-beam ceilings, cozy fireplace nooks, and Omaha’s original vintage salad bar create a timeless charm that feels wonderfully nostalgic.

It is exactly where you want to gather for a classic meal. Dinner reservations go fast, especially with Father's Day weekend coinciding with the bustling June baseball crowds.

💈 Where history meets a handsome new look

103 N 50th St, Omaha

Dundee Barber has anchored the corner of 50th and Dodge longer than any shop in town, perfecting classic cuts for the modern man. Inside, real classic chairs and talented barbers bring a welcoming ease to every visit.

We say book ahead, especially with Dad's Day weekend right around the corner. It is the perfect spot to get cleaned up and looking sharp before the beautiful summer weekend getaways.

Click here to be the business everyone hears about next week!

Meet the energetic Chaos, a big-hearted Boxer mix

At a sturdy 61 to 100 pounds, this adult dog is a bundle of strong, loyal affection. He is fully neutered and ready for a house with a yard to stretch his legs, as apartment life just isn't his style.

Please contact the shelter directly to inquire about his adoption fee and see if he is your perfect match.

To learn more about this charmingly boisterous boy,

🤡 Big Canvas Family Friendly Comedy Improv | Blackstone Theater | 06/19 | More
Interactive improv comedy games inspired by spontaneous audience suggestions.

⛸️ Family Ice Skating | Moylan Tranquility Ice Plex | 06/19-06/21 | More
Cool indoor rink recreation offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat.

🚗 Father's Day Car Show | Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum | 06/20 | More
Classic cars and roaring engines displayed inside aircraft-filled military hangars.

✊ Juneteenth Joyfest | The Union for Contemporary Art | 06/20 | More
Black arts festival featuring live music, spoken word, and local artisans.

🍔 Father’s Appreciation Day | Just Good Meat | 06/20 | More
Complimentary sausage samples and festive giveaways at a classic butcher shop.

🌊 Father's Day Flop Competition | Fun-Plex | 06/21 | More
Big splashes and lighthearted bragging rights highlight this waterpark tradition.

⚓️ Omaha Navy Week | Various Locations | until 06/21 | More
A massive celebration: patriotic musical performances, science activities, and more.

🎶 AM/FM Band Concert | Village Pointe Amphitheater | 06/25 | More
Upbeat, danceable retro rock covers performed in a lively open-air plaza.

😂 Andrew Dismukes Live | Funny Bone Comedy Club | 06/19-06/20 | More
Sharp, witty stand-up comedy performance inside an energetic venue.

🌵 21st Annual Cactus + Succulent Show | Mulhall's | 06/20 | More
Bizarre plants, specialty regional growers, food trucks, and friendly competitions.

👕 "Par-Tee" at Dillard's | Oakview Mall | 06/20 | More
A relaxed celebration: premium brand shopping, giveaways, and an outdoor cookout.

🎸 Five for Fighting & Edwin McCain | Steelhouse Omaha | 06/21 | More
Sweeping 90s singer-songwriter pop-rock filled with earnest piano melodies.

🥂 Father's Day Brunch | Le Voltaire French Bistro | 06/21 | More
Decadent classic French cuisine paired with exquisite fine wines.