Entertainment

The Unbreakable Boy

A Papillion man's memoir becomes a major motion picture Article by Kathy Nickerson | Photography by Sammie Rodriguez Early in 2025, Papillion resident Scott LeRette and his family attended the red-carpet premiere of a movie called  The Unbreakable Boy  in New York City. They weren’t just moviegoers, though. They were the subject of the film. The movie is based on Scott’s memoir about life with his son, Austin, who has a rare brittle bone disease and autism. Scott grew up in Iowa, went to...

Sports + Recreation

Golf, Your Way, All Year

Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just starting, The Back Nine offers a welcoming, year-round golf experience Article by Vince Mancuso | Photography by Joseph Saaid Opened at the beginning of this year, The Back Nine offers an unparalleled indoor golf experience. It features private and open bays, detailed analytics, and unlimited access for members. “We offer public tee times and memberships. Members get all the perks of 24/7 access, 365 days a year,” says franchise owner Mercedes Fonte...

Food + Beverage

Menu Items for Men

A curated list of must-try local menu items for men Article and Photography by 1. The Hangover Cafe Diem’s Angus chuck patty, crispy bacon, eggs, hash browns, cheddar, sausage gravy on grilled toast. 2. The Spicy Cattlemen's Brisket Sandwich The Pit BBQ Lounge: hickory smoked brisket, crispy jalapeños, mac n' cheese, mozzarella, spicy BBQ sauce. 3. Wings Moran’s Grill: Crispy, juicy wings with a variety of bold, flavorful sauces. 4. Ribeye Steak Pine and Black Bistro: grass-fed...

Health + Wellness

Looking Beyond the Lens

Expert eyecare advice from the owner of Walnut Creek Eyecare Article by Deb Grayson Reinard | Photography by A2i Photography We have annual exams with our primary care doctor. We visit our dentist every six months for a cleaning. But how often do we see the provider who monitors our vision? We sat down with Dr. Zach Brown, a comprehensive optometrist at Walnut Creek Eyecare in Papillion, to gain insight into the importance of regular eye exams. Q: What can I expect from an eye exam? Dr...

Professional Services

Plumbing with Purpose

Reliable service, real options, and expert care are how locally owned PlumbRite stands out Article by Vince Mancuso | Photography by A2i Photography Since opening its doors in 2018, PlumbRite has earned a reputation for providing expert plumbing services with a personal touch. Led by owner and CEO Matt Simet, the company handles “everything”—from plumbing service and drain cleaning to major construction of large buildings. As Papillion residents, Matt and his wife Sonja, who works alongside...

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...

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...

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...

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...