Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert to Proclaim 50 Over 50 Honorees at Annual Awards Ceremony

Graphic by Michelle Vega

On Saturday, Oct. 12, Omaha will celebrate the achievements of some of its most remarkable citizens at the 50 Over 50 Nebraska Awards hosted by The Bloc. This prestigious event will not only highlight the contributions of 50 exceptional Nebraskans aged 50 and over but will also see Mayor Jean Stothert issue a special proclamation recognizing their impact on the community.

At the heart of the evening’s celebration is the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to Thomas Warren Sr., whose 24 years in law enforcement, including serving as Omaha Police Chief, have left an indelible mark on the city. Warren’s leadership, dedication and commitment to Omaha’s safety and development have made him a pillar in the community.

Mayor Stothert’s proclamation underscores the vital contributions of these honorees, with a special acknowledgment of Warren’s outstanding service. His journey to a respected community leader highlights the profound impact one person can have, no matter their age.

Dina Becirovic, CEO of The Bloc, shared her excitement about this year’s awards, saying, “We are incredibly proud to celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of those who prove that age is no barrier to success. These awards honor the invaluable contributions of seasoned professionals and highlight the enduring power of experience."

The event will feature keynote speeches from Congressman Don Bacon, Mayor Jean Stothert, and Dina Becirovic, as well as remarks from Yesenia Peck, President of the Nebraska Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and Philip Bruce, Founder of The Bloc.

Serving as emcees for the evening will be Douglas County Commissioner Roger Garcia and 6 News WOWT Anchor Taylor Johnson.

• JULIE VERBELY

• K.C. BELITZ

• KEN CURRY

• KEVIN LAWLER

• LESLIE ANDERSEN

• LESLIE BISHOP HARTUNG

• LETICIA RODRIGUEZ

• LOIS JORDAN

• MACHAEL DURHAM

• MARIA CANTU HINES

• MARIA VALENTIN

• MARIA VAZQUEZ

• MIKE RIEDMANN

• NERIS FRANCE

• RAFEL HART

• ROB MCCARTNEY

• SANDIE YEAMAN

• SHIRL A. MORA JAMES

• TAMMY GREEN

• TAR MACIAS

• TERI MIKKELSEN

• TERRY GLOVER

• THOMAS WARREN SR.

• TIMOTHY BURKE

• TONY VEGA

• WINSLEY DURAND III

The 2024 honorees represent a wide range of fields and accomplishments. The notable honorees include:

• ABDUL MACKIE

• AIDA EVANS

• AIMEE MELTON

• ANNE HINDERY

• BRENDA COUNCIL

• BRIAN MIKKELSEN

• CAROL RUSSELL

• DENISE FALCON

• DR. AMY YAGER

• DR. BEVERLY KRACHER

• DR. CHARLES STOLTENOW

• DR. CHITTARANJAN RAY

• DR. JEFFREY GOLD

• DR. JILL BRUCKNER

• DR. JOANNE LI

• DR. JULIETTE PARNELL

• DR. MARIA VASQUEZ

• DR. MARYANNE STEVENS

• DR. SRIRAM RAMASWAMY

• ERNEST WHITE

• GIOVANNI JONES

• J.L. SPRAY

• JEFF YOST

• JORGE ERNESTO ESPEJEL

These individuals continue to prove that age is no limit to achievement, and their collective contributions are improving Nebraska’s communities.

Graphic created by Michelle Vega

Story by Xitlally Velasco