🍕 Where to find authentic New York-style slices in Omaha

August is flying by, but Omaha still has just a bit more of summer left to enjoy. This week brings free music at Gene Leahy Mall, concerts around town, pro soccer, and plenty more.

We also have a few local spots worth knowing, from a pizza place with a very specific approach to its New York-style crust to a pottery studio that has been around for nearly 30 years. And if you are looking for a new four-legged friend, keep an eye out for Kiya. Scroll right on!

💗 Heartland Honors marks 25th anniversary of 9/11

The Gist: KETV is partnering with local organizers for Heartland Honors 9/11, an initiative hosting 11 Days of Volunteer Service across the Omaha area from Sept. 1 through Sept. 11. Community members can assist food pantries, sort donations, and support nonprofit programs through SHARE Omaha, SHARE Iowa, and United Way of the Midlands, or donate to first responder groups via the Omaha Community Foundation.

Why It Matters: Rolling up your sleeves for a volunteer shift or displaying a Heartland Honors yard sign is a meaningful way to teach the next generation about gratitude and service while helping those in need. It brings the community together to honor local first responders and remember those who lost their lives 25 years ago.

🎨 Local artists are taking over downtown's garages

The Gist: The Omaha City Council approved a $200,000 plan to add murals to four downtown parking garages. The project is a partnership with Local Artists, Local Art (LALA), the nonprofit behind the murals at ORBT bus stations and the South Omaha silos. LALA started in 2020, painting walls around the city during the pandemic.

Why It Matters: It's another step in a long-running push to make Omaha a recognized arts city, turning blank concrete into work by local artists in the middle of downtown.

🍕 Science-backed New York slices in Nebraska

Noli’s Pizzeria takes proper New York pie seriously, pairing thin, crisp crusts with a custom water filtration process that replicates NYC tap water. Grab a slice or go full pie with the crowd-favorite Speziato. Add the Momo’s salad (layered with a family poppy seed dressing) and enjoy the warm, rustic-industrial space.

Swing by for a weeknight table or a quick slice on the go!

🎨 Colorful ceramics waiting for your personal touch

That Pottery Place has been a local landmark since 1997, offering a low-key creative spot suitable for all ages. You can select pieces from shelves to customize with included paints, glazes, and firing, or explore glass fusion, mosaics, and home kits.

With fall approaching, it is a great time to get a head start on personalized, display-worthy gifts. Walk-ins are welcomed, though reservations are recommended for busier evenings and weekends.

💗 Kiya is a striking large-breed mix

With the unmistakable charm of a Siberian Husky, this friendly adult dog thrives on human connection and has a proven track record of living happily alongside cats and children.

She brings an outgoing spirit to any household ready for a loyal companion. She is eager to meet prospective furparents. Please contact the shelter directly for details regarding her adoption fee and specific requirements for meeting other dogs.

To learn more about this beautiful girl,

🎷 NOMAFEST | North Omaha Music & Arts | 08/13-08/16 | More 
World-class funk, jazz, and soul showcases.

🎶 Friday Night Concert Series feat. Dixieheads | Rockbrook Village | 08/14 | More
Easygoing outdoor tunes to kick off the last summer weekend.

🎨 Chalk Art Festival | Turner Park Sidewalks | 08/15-08/16 | More 
Sidewalk masterpieces, live acoustic music, face painting, and dining.

🛍️ 1234 Market | Dusk Goods & Gifts | 08/15 | More 
Vintage treasures, handmade goods, and local food trucks.

🎸 Saturdays @ Stinson feat. The Bishops | Stinson Park at Aksarben Village | 08/15 | More
Face painting, a playground, and a live band on the lawn.

🧵 GrannyBash // Become the Granny | Sheelytown Market | 08/15 | More Handmade traditions, skill-sharing lessons, craft vendors, and community portraits.

🐶 Mall Mutt Meet Up & Market - Summer Bark 2 School Edition | Oak View Mall | 08/21 | More 
Doggy fashion shows, pet vendor shopping, and playful community games.

🦁 Late Nights at the Zoo | Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium | 08/13 | More 
Drinks, local artisan markets, interactive bingo, and special animal encounters.

🪄 The Magic of Eric Eaton | Omaha Funny Bone | 08/14 | More 
An adults-only evening of quick-witted comedy and mind-blowing illusion.

🎸 Playing with Fire | Slowdown | 08/13-08/15 | More 
International blues and roots rock showcasing electrifying guitar riffs and vocals.

🖤 Emo Nite | The Waiting Room | 08/15 | More
Scream every 2000s lyric you swore you forgot.

🎹 Tori Amos: In Times Of Dragons Tour | Orpheum Theatre | 08/18 | More
Piano-driven alt-rock from an icon, with Bartees Strange.

🎤 Jesse Welles with Ratboys | Steelhouse Omaha | 08/18 | More
Sharp, folky, of-the-moment songwriting in a great room. Ticketed.

🩸 First Alert 6 Community First Blood Drive | Kiewit Luminarium | 08/19 | More Complimentary museum admission vouchers and t-shirts to local donors.

Thanks for reading Our Newsletter! We’ll have more updates for you next week!

Click here to follow us: Facebook | Instagram