🏆 It’s official: Omaha’s best news team is...

_{Was this e-mail shared with you? Sign up here.}

Late August in Omaha just hits different. One minute you’re dodging back-to-school traffic, the next you’re sipping a cold one under the lights at Turner Park. This week’s got something for every kind of local: jazz lovers, art nerds, drag brunchers, and anyone who just needs a laugh!

We rounded up the best of what’s happening (and what’s opening soon). Dive in and mark your calendars.

Coming soon

🎉 Africa on a Plate

Get ready for a trip to the banks of the White Nile without leaving 16th Street!

Opening this September in the old Panda House spot, Africa on a Plate brings South Sudanese flavors to the heart of the city: think kisra (a tangy, paper-thin flatbread), slow-cooked goat stew, rich lentils, and sorghum porridge.

With vegan and gluten-free options, it’s soulful, earthy comfort food that tells a story in every bite. Learn more here.

🎨 The Local Art Plug

With soaring ceilings, crisp white walls, and a touch of exposed brick, The Local Art Plug is a gathering place that feels as inspiring as the art on its walls.

Founded by Xavier J., it’s home to “Creatives & Coffee” meetups, open mics, and rotating showcases that highlight Omaha’s talent. More than just a venue, it’s a welcoming hub where art strengthens community and creativity feels within reach. Learn more here.

• $1,975,000

• 7 beds

• 7 baths

• 9,599 sqft

• 1.48 Acres Lot

Right along Omaha Country Club, this home delivers resort-style living every day. Seven en-suite bedrooms, fresh high-end updates, and a two-story golf simulator make it perfect for gathering. Set on 1.48 tree-filled acres for ultimate privacy. View property here.

🚦 Omaha Lowers Speed Limits on Busy Roads

The Gist: Omaha City Council voted to lower speed limits on several stretches of road to improve safety. Near Millard West High School, Q Street from 156th to 180th will drop from 45 to 40 mph. In North Omaha, both 30th Avenue from Filmore to McKinley and 31st Street from McKinley to Ferry will go from 35 to 30 mph. On 108th Street between West Maple and Fort, speeds will drop from 40 to 35.

Why it matters: Slower speeds mean safer crossings for students and neighbors. Read more here.

🏆 KETV Brings Home Top Statewide Honors

The Gist: KETV made a strong showing at the Nebraska Broadcasters Awards, earning recognition in multiple categories. Julie Cornell and Tyler Wilson received the “Service to Children” award, Madison Perales won gold for multimedia journalism, and Sean Everson took “Best Weathercast.” The station also claimed top spots for election coverage and on-the-scene sports reporting.

Why It Matters: These awards spotlight the talent and dedication behind the news Omahans rely on every day. Read more here.

At six years old, Judy is a Boxer mix who’s happiest soaking up sunshine! 

This 62-pound cuddlebug adores soft blankets, leisurely walks with plenty of sniff breaks, and cozy nights on the couch with her favorite people. She’s food-motivated (cheese is her weakness), potty trained, and prefers life as the only pet or with smaller dogs. Her adoption fee is fully sponsored!

To learn more about this sweet girl, click HERE.

🌏 LINKIN PARK: From Zero World Tour | CHI Health Center | Omaha | 08/29 | More 
Their first major world tour in nearly a decade: now with lead singer Emily Armstrong.

🎭 Big Canvas Comedy Improv | Blackstone Theater | Omaha | 08/29 | More
Fast, “Whose Line”-style games built from your suggestions; every show’s brand new.

🧺 LOVAM Jazz Festival | Turner Park | Omaha | 08/30 | More 
Spread out on the lawn with neighbors and soak up big-city sound in the park.

🧡 Unity Fest 2025 | Gene Leahy Mall at The RiverFront | Omaha | 08/30 | More
A celebration of culture, music & community: bring a blanket and your neighbors.

🎉 The 30+ Party | Slowdown | Omaha | 08/30 | More 
Make it a downtown Omaha date with friends and nostalgia.

🌮 Drag Brunch - AJA & Carmen Carrera | Epoca Street Tacos | Omaha | 08/30 | More 
Street tacos and icy margaritas between numbers: downtown flavor with plenty of spice.

📸 AFRO FEST 2025 | Heartland of America Park | Omaha | 08/31 | More
Kids & curious minds: the Children’s + Educational Village packs robots and more!

If you want to read any of our previous issues, check them out HERE on our website.