Hello, Omaha. This is Jeremy.
If you find yourself in a cool, dimly lit bar on one of those hot summer nights for a few rounds of trivia, you’ll probably want to know the answer to this question: What is the deadliest animal in the world?
They are not lions, tigers, snakes, alligators, tarantulas or sharks with damn laser beams attached to their heads.
Note: This is the annoying bloodsucker that is multiplying in your garden.
Hundreds of thousands of people die each year from mosquito-borne diseases. Freelance writer Nancy Gaarder’s latest report aims to raise awareness among Nebraskans about the threat posed by these flying pests.
The first West Nile virus diagnosis of the year was made in Douglas County about two months ago, but the season for the sometimes fatal virus is just heating up.
Health officials are concerned that this season could be tough, as mosquito numbers have increased significantly compared to last year. They are even more worried that climate change will extend the mosquito season in the future.
Fortunately, there are a few small steps you can take to avoid common bites.
Read Nancy’s story to learn more (or click on the photo above).
— Jeremy TurleyFlatwater Free Press
Housing, lowriders and cocktails, oh my! There’s a lot going on in Omaha next month, from traditional medicine presentations to the Midwest’s largest festival celebrating African culture. Take advantage of the opportunities to network, learn and have fun.
Conference on housing and home ownership
Have you ever thought about owning your own home, or know someone who has? Then you won’t want to miss this Family Housing Advisory Services conference. Attendees can expect a day packed with information about home ownership opportunities, mortgage and loan options, government housing programs, and much more!
– When: 17 August, 8:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
– Where: Family Housing Advisory Services – 2401 Lake St., Omaha
IBBG Mural Listening Session
Calling all community members and creatives: Make your voice heard during this mural listening session as we discuss suggestions and ideas to determine which image best represents “I Be Black Girl” and the community it resides in. IBBG serves as a collective for Black women, femmes, and girls to realize their full potential through autonomy, abundance, and liberation.
– When: 22 August, 6-7pm
– Where: Register for Zoom link
Welcome to the Streets Lowrider Show
End your summer in style! This free event will rev your engine. Got a tricked out car or motorcycle you’ve been wanting to show off? Now’s your chance! The car with the biggest hydraulic “jump” will be crowned this year’s “King of the Streets.”
– When: 17 August, 11am–4pm
– Where: Inphase Car Audio – 13438 L St., Omaha
Nightlight: Traditional Indigenous Medicine
Join Minnesota-based business owner Megan L. Bull Bear for a discussion of traditional Indigenous medicines. From her inspirations to sourcing methods, experience the depth of Bull Bear’s knowledge at this adults-only evening event.
– When: 22 August, 7pm-10pm
– Where: Kiewit Luminarium – 345 Riverfront Drive, Omaha
Afro Fest Omaha 2024
Live from Gene Leahy Mall! Afro Fest Omaha is back for its sixth year and this year it’s bigger and better than ever. This day of cultural festivities includes a children’s and education village, an African market and food street, whiskey tastings and rousing performances by local and internationally known artists. FFP Omaha subscribers receive 10% off tickets by using the code “ART” at checkout.
– When: Sept. 1, 2-10 p.m.
– Where: Heartland Park of America – 800 Douglas St., Omaha
Mixing and Sipping: A Hands-On Mixology Experience
I’ve heard of Paint and Sip. I’ve even heard of Cake and Create. But now I’m excited to introduce you to Mix and Sip! Prepare to be blown away as expert bartender Melanie Henderson teaches you the art and science of making the perfect cocktail.
– When: 14 September, 4-7pm
– Where: Time on My Hands: Arts and Crafts and Services – 7020 Maple St., Omaha
— Xavier Jackson is an Omaha-based entrepreneur who connects and empowers creatives through his organization Local Art Plug.
The Omaha Planning Board approved several agenda items, including the Central Park Plaza redevelopment project. The board set aside a special use permit for Hansen Property Development after hearing concerns about the environmental impact of industrial recycling company U-Pull-It and the unauthorized use of a heavy-duty auto shredder. The board also set aside the Nebraska Mental Health Association’s application for a small group living facility after discussions about public safety and transparency. Read our full summary for more details on these discussions and decisions. Read the full meeting minutes on the Documenters website.
Do you want to educate your community and create better journalism and earn money doing it? Become a documentary filmmaker today.
— Leah Wambui KeinamaNebraska Journalism Trust
This week (and every week) I’m obsessed with the goat cheeses from Lincoln’s own Dutch Girl Creamery. I bring a container of their lemon honey chèvre and some oatmeal cookies to every dinner party—it’s always a hit.
But lately I’ve also been specializing in goat gouda and blue cheese. It’s easy to be adventurous when Kevin Loth, one of the farm’s owners, smiles and offers you a generous sample of his wife’s latest creation. Meet him at Omaha’s Saturday and Sunday farmers markets and try for yourself!
— Fate of HerberFlatwater Free Press
Both vice presidential candidates plan to visit the Omaha area next week as the electoral vote race heats up in Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District, Aaron Sanderford of the Nebraska Examiner reported. Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz is coming this weekend to promote Kamala Harris’ campaign, and Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance will appear at a $1,000-a-plate fundraiser hosted by the Ricketts family and other Republican donors.
Former police fundraiser Jack Olson pleaded guilty to tax evasion and conspiracy to commit wire fraud as part of a scheme to defraud the Latino Peace Officers Association, the World-Herald’s Luna Stephens reported. Former Omaha City Councilman Vinny Palermo and two former police officers previously pleaded guilty to similar charges. A judge will determine how much prison time Olson will serve.
Nick Murphy, a former Omaha dance studio owner and NFL punter, was sentenced to nearly five years in prison for sexually abusing a child, WOWT’s Brian Mastre reported. As part of the deal, prosecutors agreed not to charge Murphy with misconduct in another case involving a minor in Sarpy County.
Starting next year, the UNO will offer a degree program in artificial intelligence as the impact of this new technology continues to grow, WOWT’s Bella Caracta reported. The program is the first of its kind in Nebraska.
Nonprofit workers and city officials held an information session on lead contamination in north Omaha, KMTV’s Melissa Wright reported. A city planning director urged residents to enter their address at omahalead.org to see if their property’s lead levels have been tested.
A hole in a South Omaha bridge that is now covered with plywood has raised concerns among residents and workers, KMTV’s Jill Lamkins reported. A full repair of the rapidly deteriorating bridge is not scheduled until 2029, according to NDOT, but neighbors fear it will be too late by then to prevent a tragedy.
The Flatwater Free Press is published by the Nebraska Journalism Trust, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
