On Our Block: A Compilation of Inspiring Events, People and Stories
We are introducing On Our Block! We’re bringing you a compilation of events, unique programs, inspiring people, stories, and happenings in Omaha. Whether you're a lifelong Omaha resident or just moved here, we're your one-stop shop to discover all that our vibrant city has to offer. Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates, and follow us on social media to stay in the loop. Let's explore Omaha together!
One Omaha Woman is Raising Funds to Upgrade her Neighborhood Park
Have you ever used a public space that could use some sprucing up? Many of us may daydream of making improvements, but Bryn Knobbe was inspired by her daydream, and is now making it a reality.
Parkside Park, a neighborhood park near 144th Street and West Center Road in Omaha, needs some major TLC. The playground equipment doesn’t meet today’s safety standards, nor is it all that … interesting. Knobbe hopes to install equipment that is safe and accessible to different abilities.
“The park sits on my nearly daily 1-mile walk that I take in our neighborhood,” Knobbe said. “Each time I passed this really beautiful spot it pained me to see such an underutilized playground.”
She reached out to the Omaha Parks Foundation in search of some solutions and a fund was started to purchase new playground equipment.
“It's been a fun experience to show my daughters and the kids in this neighborhood that one person can make a difference and they see a very real and tangible result of just what can happen when a community comes together,” she said.
So far 70% of the funds needed to meet the project’s $43,000 goal have been reached and she needs the public’s support to reach that goal. She aims to have the project complete by the end of the summer.
Lauritzen Gardens Has a Treasure Trove of Learning Opportunities
If you’re thinking of picking up a new hobby, need some self-care, or just interested in learning more about the natural world, chances are Lauritzen Gardens has a class for it.
The botanical center hosted more than 200 adult programs last year and will surpass that number this year. Classes are nature-based and offer participants a new way to interact with the natural world.
“We seek out instructors and community partners that help our participants engage their senses, tap into their creative side, connect with their body and mind, and explore a more personal relationship with plants and the environment,” said Mia Jenkins, director of marketing.
Jenkins said many instructors teach exclusively at Lauritzen Gardens, making classes unique to the 100-acre environment. Yoga, tai chi, photography workshops, and birding programs are outdoor programs.
If you’re an avid reader, the botanical book club reads titles that emphasize nature. Upcoming meetings will discuss books including Lab Girl by Hope Jahren, The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner, and Soil by Camille T. Dungy.
New this summer are classes on flower pressing, eco-friendly wreaths, origami flowers, journal bookbinding with pineapple leather, and candle making. Members and non-members can also attend special lectures including the upcoming “Summer Solstice Lecture” featuring Jim Locklear, who will discuss the Kaw River on June 20.
The full schedule of adult programs is available on the Lauritzen Gardens website.
Continuing to Show up for Tornado Victims
After devastating tornados swept through the metro area on April 26, local residents showed up in full force to help victims who lost their homes.
There is still more we can all do to pitch in. The United Way of the Midlands is still short of its goal of $1,500,000 to assist those affected. To donate to UWM’s relief fund, click here.
The Omaha Storm Chasers is joining forces with Major League Baseball and Minor League Baseball and is currently auctioning off memorabilia to aid relief. The online auction will remain live until May 25. Click here to place your bid.
On Friday, May 31, a benefit concert is happening at Granary Green. Click here for tickets.
Additionally, visit Share Omaha’s tornado relief page to view a comprehensive list of organizations accepting donations.
If you can’t provide donations but still want to help, you can visit Omaha Rapid Response’s Facebook page for the latest updates on its efforts and volunteer opportunities.