🚧 Big roadwork plans are coming for Omaha!

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Suddenly…. the bright spots feel a little warmer! Maybe it is the way a school gym erupts in applause for a teacher who just earned statewide recognition, or the way local businesses lean into thoughtful specials that give us an excuse to gather despite the chill.

The calendar is full, from quiet birding workshops to packed comedy shows downtown, each one a reminder that this city does not hibernate.

Omaha shows up in ways that are both headline worthy and beautifully ordinary. We are proud to share those moments with you, and grateful you are right here with us as this community keeps growing.

🌏 Global comfort food with neighborhood soul

The transformation of the former Copal space into Benjamin’s Kitchen is less like a closure and more like a soulful evolution.

While the new menu leans into American comfort, it keeps its passport handy, offering everything from crispy beef empanadas to chicken parmesan gnocchi. The transition preserved the original, welcoming staff, maintaining a polished yet grounded atmosphere that works for a quiet weeknight or a lively Saturday.

Through February, their "Month of Love" special is a understated win: two sushi rolls, a dessert, and two glasses of wine or margaritas for $45. It is a thoughtful way to sample the kitchen’s versatility without the pretense of a typical coursed dinner.

✨ A quiet sanctuary for modern rituals

After a long week, Valo Wellness Spa offers a welcome shift in pace through simple, effective rituals. The atmosphere carries a certain local pride, blending clean, organic practices with a modern wellness playground where you can settle into an anti-gravity chair or a salt sauna session.

Those who spend time here often appreciate the thoughtful touches, like the well-stocked changing rooms and the glow from the fireplace room.

For February, the membership benefits include a little extra care, allowing a choice between hot stones or a spinal detox enhancement. The estheticians are known to use the same products they recommend, keeping things honest and grounded.

🚧 Navigating Omaha's 2026 Roadwork

The Gist Spring brings a fresh wave of road improvements starting this April. Crews will begin expanding I-680 between Pacific and Dodge, while a new roundabout is scheduled for the Highway 275 and Highway 6 intersection. Major progress is also expected on the streetcar line and bridge repairs along Highway 75.

Why It Matters These updates aim to resolve daily traffic bottlenecks and create more reliable routes for everyone traveling through the city.

What’s Next Major projects launch in April, including a full closure of the Highway 275 and Highway 6 intersection through July 2026.

🍎 Local Teacher Wins Top Honor

The Gist Gina Wiitanen, the STEM coordinator at Upchurch STEM Elementary, was recently named the 2026 Nebraska Agriculture in the Classroom Teacher of the Year. During a surprise assembly, the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation celebrated her work connecting students to real world farming through drone technology and engineering projects. Her students learn by doing, from building grain sieves to solving modern agricultural challenges.

Why It Matters This recognition highlights how our local educators are finding creative ways to link classroom science and math to the industries that power our state. Wiitanen will travel to Providence, Rhode Island, this June to represent our community at the National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference.

Waffles is looking for a place where he can really get to work!

Waffles is looking for a place where he can really get to work!

This one year old domestic shorthair mix is a seven pound powerhouse of white and gray tabby fur, perfectly suited for a life in a drafty barn, a bustling brewery, or a quiet greenhouse. He is not one for the indoors, but he is a dedicated professional when it comes to keeping a property clear of pests.

Neutered and current on his needs, Waffles is available through the Nebraska Humane Society for a $50 adoption fee. He is a sturdy, independent companion for anyone who values a cat with a strong sense of duty.

To learn more about this capable boy,

🌈 Morris Micklewhite and the Tangerine Dress | The Rose Theater | Omaha | starts 02/20 | More 
A stage production celebrating imagination, individuality, and the courage of childhood.

🛍️ Winter Warehouse Sale | Four Sisters Boutique | Omaha | 02/20-02/22 | More 
A seasonal shopping event: major markdowns on fashion and unique boutique finds.

🐦 Winter Birding with The Nature Conservancy | Mulhall’s Greenhouse | Omaha | 02/21 | More 
Beginner-friendly seminar on bird identification, backyard feeding, and crane migration.

🐶 Little White Dog Rescue Meet & Greet | PetSmart Oakview | Omaha | 02/21 | More A chance to meet and snuggle with adoptable small dogs in a welcoming environment.

🚂 Union Station History Tour | The Durham Museum | Omaha | 02/21 | More 
An exploration of the Art Deco architectural secrets within this National Historic Landmark.

🎨 Drawing in the Galleries | Joslyn Art Museum | Omaha | 02/22 | More 
Sketchbook skill-building through direct observation of classical artworks.

🧩 Kids Night w/ Brick and Minifig | Wings and Rings | Omaha | 02/23 | More 
Creative LEGO play and music bingo paired with a kids-eat-free dining special!

🍻 Benson Bar Crawl 2026 | starts at Virtuoso Pizza | Omaha | 02/21 | More 
A vibrant tour through Benson's favorite local pubs ending with hoppy celebrations!

🍺 Firkin Fest! Omaha Beer Week | Upstream Brewing Company | Omaha | 02/21 | More
Rare, cask-conditioned ales and unique small-batch brews in an intimate brewery setting.

🎤 Nate Jackson: Big Dog Comedy | Steelhouse Omaha | Omaha | 02/21 | More 
Stand-up performance with quick-witted observational humor and charismatic storytelling.

🎸 Good To Be King: Tom Petty Tribute | Slowdown | Omaha | 02/21 | More 
A spirited celebration of classic rock anthems performed with nostalgic heart.

🎭 Mardi Gras Party | Tangier Shrine | Omaha | 02/21 | More 
An evening of dinner, dancing, and elaborate costumes bringing Bourbon Street energy!

🤼 PWP Wrestling: Love Hurts | The Waiting Room Lounge | Omaha | 02/25 | More Action-packed professional wrestling featuring independent athletes!

🎻 Vitamin String Quartet | Steelhouse Omaha | Omaha | 02/26 | More 
Elegant chamber arrangements of modern pop hits and Regency-inspired favorites.

🎸 Zoh Amba | LOW END | Omaha | 02/26 | More 
Avant-garde musician debuting a new acoustic songwriting and folk-forward sound.