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Experience the wonder of the season at Arbor Day Farm, where the holidays truly come to life. From a traditional Thanksgiving buffet to a sparkling tree lighting during Kick-Off to Christmas, and from Brunch with Santa to live music on New Year’s Eve, every moment is crafted for memory-making.
Start your new holiday traditions by visiting arbordayfarm.org.
@arbordayfarm @arbordaywedding @arbordayfarm
2700 Sylvan Road | Nebraska City, Nebraska arbordayfarm.org
As I was preparing to write this letter, I asked my 10-year-old son what his favorite gift he’d received had been. Without hesitation, he responded, “The Ultimate Garage!” a Hot Wheels playset that includes an elevator and a car-eating dinosaur. Honestly, it is an impressive toy!
He then asked me the same question. I responded with the gift I remember most…my parents gifted my siblings and me a trip to Disney World for Christmas. That is when the magic happened within my son. He proceeded to recall other gifts, such as a trip to The Great Wolf Lodge, a gift certificate to TreeRush Adventures high ropes course, and so on.
I then asked the million-dollar question, and his answer was better than I could have imagined. I asked if he liked those gifts better than the Ultimate Garage, and he responded, saying, “Not better, but not worse either.” Then he paused for a moment and followed with, “There really isn’t a bad gift.”
Sometimes we can get so caught up in the details of the holiday season or in making sure we get the perfect gift that we forget the reason we are getting the gift in the first place. A gift is meant to show someone we love them, and however cliché it may be, it truly is the thought that counts.
As you read through the pages of our Holidays and Giving Issue, we hope that you are inspired to give not just any gift this holiday season, but a heartfelt gift to someone you love. It could be as simple as a handwritten card or extra quality time. Or it could be the perfect find that you know a special someone in your life will love.
Just remember, the joy that comes from receiving that gift likely has more to do with the person who gives it than the gift itself.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, Papillion!
We will see you in the New Year!
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Kyler Hendrickson | kyler.hendrickson@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Amy Hendrickson | amy.hendrickson@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Amanda Mills | amanda.mills@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Kristen Muldoon
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Janette Calabro, Vince Mancuso
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Sammie Rodriguez, Bobbi Jo Beaver, Joseph Saaid, LCW Productions, Janie Jones
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Step-by-step
ALLO
A handpicked list of unique gifts from Mama Winky’s Boutique and Gift Shop Featured 14 18 24 28
1: McKean’s Floor to Ceiling hosted a “Design and Dessert” event featuring designer Lindsey Barrett. 2: Papillion residents join the Walk to End Alzheimer’s at College of Saint Mary. 3: Guests enjoyed fashion, travel tips, and connection at Katie and Veronica’s Sip, Style event. 4: Furry friends and families gathered for Muddy Paws’ 5th annual Wag-O-Ween Boo Bash celebration. 5: Papillion Fire Department visited local schools to educate students on fire prevention and safety awareness. 6: Fire safety, family fun, and community connection filled Papillion Fire Department’s annual Open House event. 7: Riddle’s Jewelry celebrated their Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting in Shadow Lake Towne Center.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
The Omaha Supernovas have unveiled their full 2026 Major League Volleyball schedule, featuring 14 thrilling home matches at the CHI Health Center. The season begins with a primetime home opener on Thursday, January 8, against the San Diego Mojo. Focused on delivering the best fan experience, all home matches will be played Thursday through Sunday, maximizing opportunities to see Nebraska’s leading professional volleyball franchise. To view the complete schedule, visit supernovas.com .
ActionCOACH and the Omaha Business Summit are teaming up to present the 1st Annual ActionNATION Business Conference on February 5, 2026. This one-day event will deliver proven business growth strategies through inspiring speakers Marcus Sheridan and Stacie Anderson, hands-on breakout sessions, and a dynamic vendor hall. Sponsorship opportunities available. Register now and save $100 with code OBS100. https://bit.ly/OmahaActionNATION
Celebrate the season at Arbor Day Farm and Lied Lodge in Nebraska City, where holiday traditions come alive from late fall to New Year’s. Enjoy festive events like Fireside Fridays, Brunch with Santa, and Christmas at the Mansion, plus an inspiring artist workshop and Tree Sponsorship opportunities. End the year with an elegant New Year’s Eve Dinner at Timbers. Visit the Arbor Day Farm website for details and reservations today.
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
SAMMIE RODRIGUEZ
STEP-BY-STEP GUIDANCE FROM MANGELSEN’S TO MAKE YOUR HOLIDAY MASTERPIECE
There’s something truly special about creating your own holiday wreath; the shimmer of ribbon, the sparkle of ornaments, and the satisfaction of crafting a decoration that welcomes everyone with warmth and cheer. This year, Mangelsen’s is sharing their expert tips and techniques to help you design a beautiful Christmas wreath. Whether you hang it on your front door or use it as a centerpiece, your handmade wreath will bring a personal touch of holiday spirit to your home.
• 1 Deco Mesh Wreath Form
• 2 Rolls of Deco Mesh (10-inch rolls)
• Chenille Stems (pipe cleaners)
• Ornaments
• Floral Stems
• Ribbon or Bow
DIRECTIONS:
01
PREPARE THE WREATH FORM
If using a form without attached stems, place three chenille stems in each section of the wreath form: two on the inside ring and one on the outside ring. In the next section, place two on the outside ring and one on the inside ring. Continue alternating this pattern for each section.
ATTACH THE BASE LAYER OF MESH
Gather the end of your first roll of deco mesh in your hand. Starting on the inside ring of the wreath form, twist one set of stems around the mesh to secure it. Next, measure about 12 inches of mesh, gather it between your fingers, and secure it to the next set of stems. Continue around the wreath form until all stems have been used. If needed, cut any excess mesh and tuck the tail end into the inside of the wreath to hide it.
ADD THE SECOND LAYER OF MESH
Cut the second roll of mesh into 14-inch strips. Take one strip and roll one end in about one full turn, then pinch the center tightly (bringing both sides together). Place the cinched mesh piece on top of the first layer and secure it with a stem. Continue until all stems are covered.
02 03 04
ADD EMBELLISHMENTS
Add your choice of ornaments, floral stems, and ribbons or a bow to complete your wreath and fit your chosen theme. Have fun creating your festive wreath!
When ALLO Fiber arrived in Sarpy County, it brought more than high-speed connectivity. The Nebraska-born company brought a local Midwestern mindset, providing service that reflects the company’s core values: honest, exceptional, local, and hassle-free.
“How do we serve and give back to our communities?” asks Dave Miller, ALLO General Manager of Eastern Nebraska. “The four core values.”
Founded in Imperial, Nebraska, in 2003 by President and CEO Brad Moline, ALLO Fiber was created with the intention of doing business differently—rooted in transparency, fairness, and a true desire to serve. Moline, originally from Imperial, set out to build a company with world-class technology that still upheld Nebraska’s small-town principles. Those values continue to guide the company today as it expands across four states, with Nebraska remaining its most densely served region.
Honesty, Miller explains, begins with ALLO’s approach to pricing. “We don’t offer lowball teaser rates just to lure people in,” he says. “Our pricing is transparent and upfront. You’ll see the price, any applicable fees, and taxes included.”
ARTICLE BY VINCE MANCUSO PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSEPH SAAID
That straightforward approach also ties directly into the value of being exceptional—providing service as personal as it is reliable. “We are such a customer-centric organization. If you call us, we will pick up and talk to you,” Miller says.
Business Account Executive Brian Chandler echoes this. “Our call centers are in Nebraska, which is something that our customers love,” he says. “A lot of companies out there try to push you to a web portal or something if you have questions or issues. ALLO likes receiving phone calls—that’s why we have a call center. It allows customers to feel like they’re being taken care of.”
When it comes to being local, ALLO goes well beyond Nebraska roots and local office walls. Through initiatives like ALLO for Education, ALLO provided every new residential customer with the opportunity to select a school of their choice to receive a $50 donation from ALLO when they signed up for services in November and December 2024. In Papillion, the local donation total reached $8,750, which was spread across multiple schools in the district.
ALLO also supports nonprofits through its Community Connect program, providing free one-gig internet for three years to organizations making a difference. “We’re going to support those in the community doing the hard work and making a difference,” Miller says.
ALLO’s commitment to service also extends to those who have served in the Armed Forces. As of 2025, roughly 10% of ALLO’s workforce, about 160 employees, are veterans. The company has received the 2024 HIRE Vets Gold Medallion and a five-star rating from Vet Indexes for its efforts in veteran hiring and retention.
For Miller, the final core value is all about mindset and service. “Hassle-free,” he says, “essentially means the golden rule. Make it easy to do business.”
Following this mindset, ALLO recently added DIRECTV streaming and mobile phone service to its offerings, providing a single point of contact for customers’ technology needs. According to Chandler, hassle-free service is simple: “It’s about convenience and trust.”
With deep Nebraska roots and a clear purpose, ALLO Fiber continues to show what it means to serve—by connecting people, supporting local causes, and keeping its promises to the communities it calls home.
AlloFiber.com
ALLO Fiber’s Smart School initiative ensures that every student can access reliable internet for homework and learning. In participating communities, any school-issued tech device, such as a Chromebook or tablet, can automatically connect to an ALLO router within range to help bridge the digital divide for families who can’t afford home internet.
“This is coming to every ALLO community,” says Dave Miller. “If my device can see an ALLO router, it’s going to get connected and stay connected.”
Building on that success, the Smart Town program extends seamless connectivity across the city, allowing ALLO customers’ mobile devices to stay online wherever they go.
A child who continues to develop their math skills can feel confident that they’re on track for a successful school year. Mathnasium gives students the instruction they need to reinforce what they’re learning in school, work on concepts that may pose a challenge, and take their math knowledge to a new level. In other words, we got this.
LOCAL NON-PROFIT, SHELTERING TREE, PROVIDES AN INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY WHERE ADULTS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES THRIVE
Sheltering Tree fosters independent living for adults with developmental disabilities with an atmosphere of hope and a community-driven living space where everyone belongs. CEO, Denise Gehringer, explains that Sheltering Tree is not a “care facility,” but a one-of-a-kind apartment community where independence thrives with a little help.
The mission to help residents live independently is easily seen within the programming and activities at Sheltering Tree. For instance, the GOALS program encourages all tenants to build skills for independent living, whether learning first aid for emergency support, personal health and wellness education, social skills, or real-world money management. The “Be Safe” GOAL teaches how to properly interact with first responders. Another key topic, RentWise, teaches what is expected of a successful tenant. In addition, vibrant activities include tenant interests as well as community interests like arts, crafts, sports, gardening, even an upcoming casino night!
Ask thirty-four-year-old tenant Josh what he likes most about living at Sheltering Tree in Papillion, and he’ll admit that he likes to hang out with his friends, play basketball, and garden, especially his tomatoes and cucumbers. He also loves spending time in his apartment surrounded by what he loves: framed photos, plants, and plenty of books. In fact, right now he’s reading Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone . Sarah, Josh’s mom, explains that Josh works at Hy-Vee and won the part-time employee of the year award!
Josh’s dad, Jerry, says, “He loves it here, and he never complains. Josh likes to do all the cool stuff.”
At Sheltering Tree, dreams of independence come true where adults with developmental disabilities can live, work, and play in a safe environment with tenant assistants living on-site. Assistants encourage appreciation for living together as a community. They also plan and participate in activities directly, ensuring everyone is safe and secure.
“It’s more than cleaning or cooking,” says Denise. “Our founder, Shirley McNally, said that she envisioned Sheltering Tree to be a cross between a freshman dorm and a cruise ship.”
Residency at Sheltering Tree apartments is designed to enhance life skills and foster belonging to each other and the community. The platform allows tenants to sign up for events and provide feedback for a fun and interactive living experience. Security cameras and pedestrian locations allow for a safe environment.
The activity and enrichment programs are substantial, led by a professional activity director. Amenities include controlled access entry, on-site laundry facilities, meal plans Monday through Friday for an additional cost, therapeutic gardens, and a LifeLoop communication system. An accessible design plan allows physical space for all needs, and designated health and wellness areas are abundant.
“We are apartments that have amenities which are attractive to folks with developmental disabilities,” says Denise. “This model is unique, different, and very innovative in that it supports folks towards independence in a way that they choose. It’s all about having a self-directed life.”
A HANDPICKED LIST OF UNIQUE GIFTS FROM MAMA WINKY’S BOUTIQUE AND GIFT SHOP
The holiday season has arrived, and it’s the perfect time to shop local and find meaningful gifts for everyone on your list. Mama Winky’s Boutique and Gift Shop in Downtown Papillion is filled with handpicked treasures, stylish finds, and unique pieces that celebrate community spirit. From cozy comforts to sparkling accessories and charming décor, there’s something for every taste and budget. Let this guide inspire your holiday shopping and make gift-giving extra special by supporting local, spreading joy, and celebrating the season in style.
1. Soberdough Bread Mix – Delicious flavors, just add beer! | 2. Oil Mix – 8 refillable flavors, perfect for dipping, marinades, or dressings. | 3. Amish Jams, Butters and Mustards – Naturally made and so good! | 4. Dough Bowls - Hand-carved, one-of-a-kind pieces that add rustic charm to any space. | 5. 1803 Candles – Soy candles hand-poured by a small family business with over 75 scents. 6. Wood framed signs – Hand-designed with rustic wood framing; seasonal sayings available. | 7. Maui Soaps – Crafted with sustainable Hawaiian ingredients and premium scents. | 8. Dog Treats – Made from upcycled ingredients, packed with superfoods for healthy fun. | 9. Husker socks – A popular choice from our cozy sock collection. CONTINUED >
ESPECIALLY FOR HER | 1. Sequin Tops – Shine at any holiday event with dazzling tops in multiple colors. | 2. Pamper Kits – All-in-one home spa sets, perfect for gifting or self-care. | 3. Santa Baby Bleached Tee – Hand-bleached, original, and fun. | 4. Glass Beads – 60” strands in dozens of stunning colors to elevate any outfit. | 5. Santa Leopard Tee – Embrace the animal print trend with this festive favorite! | 6. Muk Luk Brown Slippers – Cozy, durable, and hard-soled for all-day comfort. | 7. Mama Claus long sleeve tee & Sierra Ribbed Cardigan – A cozy combo perfect for Midwest winters. | 8. Jacquard coat and CC fur pom beanies – Holiday-ready in classic red style. | 9. PJ Set – Soft, stylish, and starry—available in pants sets.
DECEMBER 5TH, 9TH, 12TH, & 13TH
Visit Santa at His Workshop La Vista Central Park
Experience holiday magic at Santa’s Workshop in La Vista! This free event gives families a chance to meet Santa, enjoy cookies and cocoa, see the reindeer, and take festive photos. Workshop is open from 4-7 PM on Friday 12/5, Tuesday 12/9, and Friday 12/12 with a special pet-friendly morning offered December 13th from 9 AMNoon (no reindeer on this date).
DECEMBER 9TH, 13TH, & 14TH
Papillion Eagles and Portal School House
Celebrate the holidays with two sweet events from the Papillion Area Historical Society! Join the Gingerbread Decorating Party at the Papillion Eagles on December 9 from 6–9 PM, then visit Stroll Down Gingerbread Lane December 13-14 from 1-5 PM at the historic Portal Schoolhouse to see creative gingerbread houses, enjoy festive music, and vote for your favorite!
DECEMBER 14TH
Ralston High School Auditorium
Enjoy a festive performance of Holidays in Whoville, benefiting I’m a Dancer Against Cancer. Presented by Acapriccio Dance Company, this heartwarming annual event supports dancers and families affected by cancer. All proceeds are donated to the cause. Showtimes are at 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM. Purchase tickets in advance by visiting: 27572. danceticketing.com/landing.cfm
DECEMBER 15TH
Visit Santa at Ollie & Hobbes Craft Kitchen
Ollie & Hobbes Craft Kitchen, Midlands Place, 84th and 370 | 5:30 PM
Gather the family for a festive evening at Ollie & Hobbes Craft Kitchen! Enjoy a visit with Santa, snap a few photos,
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Join us in 2026 for our retirement workshops—designed to help you step into the new year with a plan as bright as the holiday lights.
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A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.
• 2 oz dark or spiced rum
• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 1 whole egg
• Dash of ground nutmeg
• Dash of vanilla extract
Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon
Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:
Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge.
Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon. Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.
A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.
INSTRUCTIONS:
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz cranberry juice
• 3/4 oz lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white
Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda
Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.
Kira McGahan Owner
