Life + Culture

Romantic At-Home Date Ideas to Make Her Feel Special

The Smitten Project’s co-founder, Shannon Snow, shares ideas for your next date night in Article by Shannon Snow Planning a date night at home can be just as romantic—if not more—than going out. Whether you're looking for something cozy, creative, or just a little different, setting up an intimate experience at home allows you to focus on each other without the outside world's distractions. Here are some unforgettable at-home date ideas designed with her in mind.   1. Candlelit Dinner for...

Sports + Recreation

Coming Home

Jordy Bahl Returns to Nebraska with Pride Article by Vince Mancuso | Photography by Nebraska Athletics Jordy Bahl’s journey in softball has taken her from the fields of Papillion-La Vista to the national stage and back again. The former Monarchs standout and Oklahoma Sooners pitcher returned to Nebraska, bringing her talent, experience, and hometown pride to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Huskers. Bahl’s softball career began with the Monarchs during the 2017-2018 season, where she...

Professional Services

The Road to Success

Women Business Owners Are Paving the Way to Economic Growth and Progress Article by Deb Grayson Reinard | Photography by Joseph Saaid Did you know that more than 35% of all businesses in the United States are owned by women? That equates to more than 14 million businesses generating $2.7 trillion in annual revenue and employing nearly 12.2 million people. “You need to wear your confidence on your sleeve and be passionate about what you do,” said Jessica Franker, owner of Franker and...

Beauty

More Than a Spa

Discover beauty, wellness, and community at Canvas Salon and Day Spa Article by Vince Mancuso | Photography by A2i Photography Canvas Salon and Day Spa, located near 42nd and Highway 370, is a sanctuary of beauty, wellness, and empowerment. Owner Erin Jenkins opened the salon eight years ago with a vision of making a lasting impact on her community. “I wanted to provide jobs for women, to empower and encourage each other,” says Erin Jenkins, inspired by her own experiences, love for the...

Life + Culture

Celebrating Arbor Day

Experience trees, history, and adventure at Arbor Day Farm Article by Vince Mancuso | Photography by Arbor Day Farm Arbor Day 2025 is set for Friday, April 25, and there’s no better place to celebrate than where it all began! Nebraska City’s Arbor Day Farm offers visitors and enthusiasts many ways to appreciate trees. “Really and truly, we’re celebrating all across the property,” says Rachel Hrabik, marketing manager of the Arbor Day Farm. With multiple attractions, there is something for...

Health + Wellness

Recharge at Float District

Reduce stress, restore balance, and revitalize your mind and body Article by Vince Mancuso | Photography by A2i Photography Float District redefines self-care in a fast-paced world where wellness often takes a backseat. Jonathan Gragg, owner of Float District, offers therapies designed to restore balance and vitality. At its heart are spacious float tanks—far from the typical enclosed pods. “These tanks are spacious enough to walk into, stand up, and get comfortable,” Gragg says. For those...

Home Services

A Breath of Fresh Air: Spring Cleaning Made Simple

Nichole Porter, owner of Merry Maids of Omaha, shares some helpful tips regarding spring cleaning.  Photography by A2i Photography Warm weather is arriving, so pollen, dirt, dust, and dander will try to set up shop in your home. A spring-cleaning session is the perfect way to refresh your home for the season and a great way to give yourself a head start on any springtime projects you might have planned around the house.   Helpful Tips for Spring Cleaning: Tip #1: Declutter and Organize  ...

Food + Beverage

A Taste of the Northwoods

Fresh Wisconsin cheeses and more in the heart of Papillion Article by Kathy Nickerson | Photography by Joseph Saaid Chris Evitch came to Nebraska years ago for a temporary job laying fiber. Once the job ended, he returned to his native Wisconsin. When a second job brought him back, he stayed and married Darleene, whose family came to Papillion through the military. Thirty-six years later, Chris, Darleene, and their son, Broc, are invested members of the Papillion community. Through the years...

Fitness

Victress MVMT

Empowering women through strength, community, and fitness Article by Vince Mancuso | Photography by A2i Photography Chris and Leslie Le are bringing a unique fitness experience with the new Victress MVMT Papillion-La Vista, an all-women's fitness facility located off 84th and Giles. “We’re very welcoming. It's not an aggressively competitive environment; it's all about being better than you were yesterday," says Leslie, who has been a member at Victress Elkhorn gym for the past four years...

Home Services

Compassion, Dignity, Respect

Trusted Life Choices helps families love and care for seniors Article by Vince Mancuso | Photography by Rebecca Marie Life's transitions include realizing the parents who once cared for you now need care themselves. With proper knowledge and early intervention, you can ensure your elderly loved ones receive the care they need. "It's always hard to sit across from the people who took care of you from infancy and say they now need some help," says Sandra Miller, owner of Trusted Life Choices...