Papillion, NE March 2026

A Letter from the Publisher

If you are anything like us, you probably have a never-ending list of home projects just waiting to make it to the top. Some may be dream projects, some may be practical or even necessary, and some are just there to add a little fun!

Home projects bring great excitement. From the initial vision to prep and demo, to the final result, it becomes a constant topic of conversation and anticipation. And when it's complete, not only do we get to enjoy the space, but we get to show it off and share it with others.

Several years ago, we remodeled our home, but we had a little fun of our own before the contractors arrived. I can still envision the look on our oldest kids’ faces when we handed them a hammer and gave them permission to knock a hole in the wall. Our toddler at the time didn't seem to mind having a turn either. But don't think the kids had all the fun, we got in our share of swings, too!

Ultimately, transforming our homes or adding something new makes a house feel like a home. Whether we refresh the interior or exterior, with something new or old, each change transforms our space in a way that makes us feel more comfortable and proud.

In this issue, we are concentrating more on the outdoor spaces of our homes as we look forward to the warmer weather ahead. We are highlighting local, family-owned businesses that are ready to help you create magical outdoor spaces! However, you may just find treasure for your indoor space within these pages as well!

Have a great start to spring, Papillion!

March 2026

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

Hailey Zebley, Kathy Nickerson, Vince Mancuso, Janette Calabro

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Joseph Saaid, Kara Shawn Photography, Sammie R Studios

Corporate Team

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

Exceptional Care, Right Where You Live

How

Forsman’s

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Papio Lions hosted a spaghetti feed supporting scholarships, service organizations, and local community causes. 2: Pinnacle Bank celebrated the grand opening of their new location in the Tower District. 3: Families enjoyed an evening of stories and crafts with players from the Omaha Supernovas. 4: Healing Hearts Therapy held a ribbon-cutting at their new location in downtown Papillion. 5: Laughter and friendly competition filled the La Vista Community Center during Family Bingo Night. 6: Omaha Supernovas players joined families for a special evening storytime and fun craft activities. 7: Student entertainment and spaghetti came together at the Papio Lions’ charitable fundraising event.

business monthly

Hamilton Heights Celebrates Two Years in the Papillion Community

Hamilton Heights Child Development Center, your local, family-owned, playbased learning program, is excited to celebrate two years in the Papillion Community!  This spring, we can’t wait for you to see our exciting playground improvements, and then in May, the launch of our Summer Program. Be on the lookout for Milton the giraffe at Papillion Days, or if you haven’t met us yet, come by, say hi, and see all that we have to offer!

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Premier Countertops Helps Homeowners Elevate Outdoor Living

Premier Countertops is helping homeowners bring their outdoor kitchen visions to life with expert design support and high-quality materials. From durable countertop selections to thoughtful layout guidance, their experienced team ensures outdoor spaces are both functional and stylish. Want a space for entertaining and everyday enjoyment before the summer months set in? Now is the time! Contact Premier Countertops at 402.991.7258 or visit their showroom near 84th and L Street to get started today!

ALLO Fiber Completes Construction of 100% Fiber Network in Papillion

ALLO Fiber has completed its 100% fiber-optic network in Papillion – La Vista, delivering high-speed internet, mobile, TV, and managed business technology solutions to residents, businesses, schools, and government entities. The expansion is part of ALLO’s ongoing investment in Nebraska, joining more than 50 communities served by the company’s fiber infrastructure. Local customers can access in-person support at ALLO’s office located in La Vista City Centre, pairing future-ready connectivity with real, on-the-ground service. Visit AlloFiber.com/Papillion to learn more!

Finely Built. Forsman’s Finest.

Forsman’s Finest Decks designs and builds custom decks, patio covers, and outdoor living spaces across the Omaha area. From the design to the final touches, their team handles every step with professionalism and attention to detail. Known for high-quality craftsmanship, clear communication, and clean job sites, they take pride in creating beautiful, long-lasting outdoor spaces that bring families together and enhance the way you enjoy your home.

A TREASURED Journey

How Cynthia Jones turned a camper with potential into a vintage treasure boutique

ARTICLE BY KATHY NICKERSON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

If you step into the Papillionaire Treasure Shop off 84th Street and Cedardale Road, you are sure to find exactly what you didn’t know you needed. A painted hurricane lamp, for instance. Or a jar of vintage marbles. You might even find a miniature porcelain tea set or the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack on vinyl.

The possibilities seem endless! However, owner Cynthia Jones admits that customers won’t find many owls in the shop. That’s because she keeps them for her private collection. She has about two hundred right now, the quirkier the better.

Cynthia grew up in a military family and spent most of her childhood in Germany. She credits that upbringing for her interest in antiques and collectables. She was surrounded by beautiful, unusual items, and many of them were older than our nation. Both the artistry and the history fascinated her.

“I’m a sucker for history,” she says. “So, I will rabbit hole for way too long researching the history of something.”

In 2023, Cynthia started buying and selling online. After the first auction, she and her husband drove to South Dakota to pick up what she had bought, and it almost didn’t fit into their van. Obviously, Cynthia needed more room. She purchased a small camper that had been used as a hunting blind. “She was ugly,” Cynthia says. “But she had potential.”

With help from her husband and her dad, Cynthia gave the camper a makeover. Her dad built custom shelves, and Cynthia used old steamer trunks to create her signature look of treasure chests filled with curiosities and trinkets.

“I wanted it to feel magical inside,” she says. Cynthia named the camper Schmetterling, which is German for butterfly. She partnered with The Cheese Haus in downtown Papillion and had a great time selling from her camper in their parking lot. Much of her stock was breakable, though, so she started looking for a permanent location. In September 2025, she moved into her shop.

The blue camper didn’t retire. Cynthia says, “I can’t wait for spring so I can park her in front of the store more often.”

Cynthia shops carefully and tries to keep her prices low. She knows these are luxury items, not necessities. “I want people to feel like they can come into the store, find something they love, and be able to afford it.”

And she loves the entire process. The hunt for a treasure, the thrill of getting a bargain, and the excitement when a customer discovers that perfect piece. Every step includes a great reward.

Cynthia doesn’t pretend to be an expert. She is simply sharing her dream and passion. She appreciates the great community support she has received, including regular customers who come in often to see what is new.

The shop is open every week, Wednesday through Saturday, with hours posted on the website. Cythnia welcomes seasoned collectors or people just beginning to explore vintage style. Everyone is invited to join the treasure hunt.

papillionairetreasureshop.com

Feature nature in your love story.

Your wedding day should be unforgettable. And so should the place where it happens. At Arbor Day Farm, your celebration unfolds surrounded by the beauty and wonder of nature. All eight of our wedding venues are designed to be the perfect backdrop for a picture-perfect day. And, for a limited time, save $500 on your reception venue rental for select dates. To learn more and schedule a tour, visit arbordayfarm.org/weddings.

2700 Sylvan Road | Nebraska City, Nebraska arbordayfarm.org @arbordayfarm @arbordaywedding @arbordayfarm

ARTICLE BY HAILEY ZEBLEY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARA SHAWN

PHOTOGRAPHY AND SAMMIE R STUDIOS

BUILDING BETTER Decks AND RELATIONSHIPS

Forsman’s Finest is shaping outdoor spaces that strengthen relationships

Entrepreneurship rarely arrives as a single, decisive leap. More often, it takes shape behind the scenes- through late nights, side projects and the steady realization that our calling could be right around the corner. For Travis and Shelley Forsman, that realization came to fruition in Forsman’s Finest Decks, a business rooted as much in purpose as it is in precision craftsmanship.

Shelley Forsman never imagined a straight-line career. Armed with a business degree but no clear end goal, she moved through roles every few years, absorbing lessons from each workplace along the way. What felt like searching, in hindsight, was preparation.

“Every job exposed me to different leadership styles, systems and mistakes,” Shelley says. “I didn’t know it then, but I was building a toolbox for something bigger.”

That something took shape alongside Travis’ lifelong dedication to carpentry. He started working at age 14 and spent the next 22 years learning home construction, eventually becoming the lead carpenter for a company known for high-end homes and additions. Clients trusted him and his work spoke for itself. Side jobs began to stack up, requests driven not by advertising, but by reputation.

Despite this success, Travis felt constrained. There was little room to grow, limited ability to improve systems and no real opportunity to elevate the client experience the way he envisioned. Shelley saw it clearly: he was capable of more.

“I personally felt he was undervalued at his place of work, and I felt like if he was going to stay there, he would be in the same position for as long as they would keep him. He also wanted to do things better. He wanted the clients to have a better experience,” Shelley says.

Her perspective ended up being the push that Travis needed.

“I always wanted to own my own business. It was on my radar for a long time, she just kind of gave me the confidence that this was something we could do successfully,” Travis says.

What began as helping him manage side projects soon evolved into something larger, with Shelley assisting on jobs, handling logistics and casually promoting his work through Facebook posts that felt less like marketing and more like genuine recommendations.

After about a year of juggling evenings and weekends, the Forsmans made it official. Late one night, they filed their LLC.

“That’s when it became real,” Shelley says. “Even if we didn’t know exactly what came next.”

Travis shares the initial motivation was simple - freedom, more control and more time. The irony, of course, is that business ownership rarely works that way.

“The business began to drive us,” Travis says. “Not the other way around.”

But with growth came clarity, and with clarity came purpose. What started as a personal goal gradually expanded into a deeper sense of responsibility - to clients, employees and the community that supported them.

Today, Forsman’s Finest Decks specializes in deck replacement, covered patios, roof additions and fully realized outdoor living spaces, often evolving into three-season rooms complete with lighting, fans, fireplaces and motorized screens.

What sets them apart isn’t just what they build, but how they approach it.

CONTINUED >

“We didn’t start this thinking about impact, but once you see it, you can’t ignore it.”

“We listen to what you need and then we make sure that what you’re asking is something that can be done. We think that’s where people feel comfortable and begin to trust us, because we are experts in this field and we are transparent in the process,” Travis says.

His full understanding of home construction allows the company to take on complex projects many competitors avoid. In fact, some referrals now come from other builders who recognize the Forsmans’ problem-solving ability.

As demand increased, the business grew beyond a two-person operation. Seven years later, hiring an office manager and a project manager marked a turning point, allowing Travis to step back from daily hands-on building and focus on sales and work on the business. Shelley’s role evolved into business development, networking, community engagement and cultivating company culture.

Team growth, they say, has been one of the most rewarding and challenging parts of the journey. Managing people requires empathy, transparency and a willingness to support goals that may extend beyond the company itself.

“If someone grows here and eventually moves on to something bigger, that’s not a failure,” Shelley says. “That’s success.”

Most projects are completed within a week, with an average wait time of about two months - a reflection of both demand and deliberate pacing. And while the structures they build are tangible, the impact often isn’t. Shelley jokes that she “saves marriages” by helping families create outdoor spaces they actually want to spend time in together. Behind the humor is a real belief: well-designed spaces foster connection.

“We listen to what you need and make sure it can be done. That’s where people feel comfortable and begin to trust us. We are experts in this field and are transparent in the process.”

That philosophy extends beyond their clients. Community involvement and giving back have become integral to the business, not as a marketing strategy, but as a reflection of gratitude. “We didn’t start this thinking about impact,” Travis says. “But once you see it, you can’t ignore it.”

Looking ahead, the Forsman’s aren’t chasing rapid expansion for its own sake. They’re focused on steady growth, strong relationships and maintaining the values that brought them here in the first place.

Forsman’s Finest Decks may have started with a side job and a late-night LLC filing - but it continues with intention, craftsmanship and a shared commitment to building something that lasts.

“I just feel grateful and lucky to be working with the people we are working with, and to have all the opportunities to do these projects. I feel like we are blessed,” Travis says.  402.504.2751 | forsmansfinest.com

A Home for Theatre

HOW PAPILLION BUILDS BELONGING THROUGH THE STAGE

ARTICLE BY VINCE MANCUSO | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

In Papillion, home extends beyond neighborhoods and schools. For nearly three decades, local theatre programs have helped residents of all ages find confidence, connection, and community through performance.

Two organizations anchor that experience: Papillion Area Community Theatre and Papillion La Vista Arts Network (PLAN). Together, they offer a rare continuum of theatre opportunities for all ages, making Papillion a true home for the arts.

Founded in 2006–2007, the Papillion Area Community Theatre, commonly known as PAC Theatre, began as the Papillion-La Vista Community Theatre, reflecting its close ties to the local school district. As the organization grew, so did its reach. “The name, PAC Theatre, not only points to our geographical roots in Papillion, but how we’ve grown to share our arts opportunities with all of our neighbors in Sarpy County,” says Celeste Pille, Board President of PAC Theatre.

The updated name also aligns with its role within the Papillion Arts Foundation, an umbrella for multiple arts organizations from the area.

PAC Theatre’s year culminates in a large-scale summer musical at SumTur Amphitheater, produced entirely by volunteers. This year’s production is Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame Auditions will be held March 20-21 with rehearsals beginning in May. Performances will take place July 10-12 and 16-18.

Accessibility is central to PAC Theatre’s mission, Celeste shares. Tickets start at $10 for green-space seating, with reserved seating ranging from $15 to $20. “It’s so great to get kids exposed to the arts and give them a live arts experience,” she says. “We work hard to keep ticket prices affordable, particularly for families.”

Participation goes beyond the spotlight, too. Ushers, stage crew, and behind-the-scenes helpers all play a role.

“It takes all different kinds of people and different kinds of talent,” says Celeste. “It’s a really unique hub for building relationships and community ties,” she says.

That intergenerational bridge begins early through PLAN. Founded in 1998 by Deborah Bowers Kippley, Ed.D., who serves as its Chief Creative Officer, PLAN focuses on elementary- and middle-school students as an avenue to explore theatre, music, and dance. “It’s the lives that have been changed, it’s the opportunity that it gives to kids,” says Deborah.

PLAN’s flagship Arts Camp runs July 13–24 this summer, producing an original musical— Creating Haley’s World, a sci-fi tween comedy —in just two weeks. Students rehearse each morning, attend breakout classes in the afternoon, and perform by the end of the camp. “It magically all comes together,” says Deborah.

In addition to its summer programming, PLAN produces an annual Winter Play, rehearsed over several weekends and performed in late February, giving students another opportunity to experience a theatrical production.

PAC Theatre and PLAN come together on the summer stage when PLAN students perform as the opening act for one night of the PAC Theatre production. “It’s such a cool opportunity to give our stage over to them,” says Celeste. Deborah adds, “A number of our kids stay and see whatever the play is. It’s become a great collaboration and good exposure for our program.”

In total, nearly 100 performers—from age seven to over sixty—take the stage in Papillion each summer. Together, they transform theatre from a simple performance into a place where everyone belongs.

pactheatre.org | planartsnetwork.org

Outdoor Kitchen & Patio

Where outdoor living comes to life

If your idea of a perfect day includes sunshine, good food, and a comfortable place to kick back, Outdoor Kitchen & Patio might be your happy place. Tucked into Omaha’s Bel Air Plaza, this 10,000-square-foot showroom is dedicated to one thing: making outdoor living feel just as inviting (and stylish) as the inside of your home.

As the third owner of the family-owned business, Kelly Walters knows a thing or two about big life changes. After decades in a corporate career, he took a leap in December 2020 when he purchased Outdoor Kitchen & Patio—and hasn’t looked back since. Backed by a team of knowledgeable staff members, the business operates with the same customer-first philosophy that’s guided it for more than 45 years: friendly advice, honest guidance, and zero pressure—whether you’re replacing a single chair or building your dream backyard oasis.

Step inside the showroom and you’re greeted by walls of colorful umbrellas, many with optional heat or lighting for those Nebraska evenings that cool down faster than expected. From there, it’s a feast for outdoor design lovers. Trusted brands like Berlin Gardens, Jensen Outdoor, Homecrest, Castelle, and Woodard fill the space with everything from cushy loungers and eye-catching dining sets to weatherproof ottomans, benches, and bar-height islands that look almost too good to leave outside.

“Everybody does a bit of everything here,” Kelly says. “From assembly to sales. Berlin Gardens is our best-selling brand because it’s well-made, heavy furniture. It’s good in the Nebraska wind!”

ARTICLE BY JANETTE CALABRO

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSEPH SAAID

The pandemic played a major role in Kelly’s decision to buy the business—and in shaping how people use their outdoor spaces today. Backyards became gathering places, dining rooms, and mini vacation spots. That trend hasn’t faded. Fire tables are especially popular, along with premium grills, smokers, pizza ovens, and outdoor kitchen appliances designed to handle everyday use.

As outdoor dining remains popular, having a variety of styles and comforts available is essential. “Deep-seat cushions are popular with older folks or those with kids at home,” Kelly says. “The younger crowd often looks for more durable or contemporary styles.”

Whether you’re planning cozy fireside chats, poolside lounging, or full-on outdoor entertaining, Outdoor Kitchen & Patio proves that outdoor living isn’t just seasonal, it’s a lifestyle. And thanks to special orders and online shipping options, your perfect setup is always within reach.

WE MAKE MOVING FUN

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Our team goes above and beyond to provide reliable, professional, and compassionate service, ensuring your belongings are handled with respect and your moving experience is smooth and stress-free.

Kira McGahan Owner

Contact us today! Trust your move to a company that leads with honesty, strength, and heart.

moversandshakersne.com

712-899-6265

14748 West Center Road

MARCH 2026

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MARCH 11TH(TEENS) & 25TH(ADULTS)

K-Pop Krafters

Papillion Landing Art Room | 6:00 PM

K-Pop fans are invited to a creative evening of music, keychain crafts, and Korean trivia. Separate sessions are offered for teens and adults. Registration is required and should be completed at papillionpubliclibrary.org based on your age group. The teen event is Tuesday, March 11th at 6 PM and the adult event is Tuesday, March 25th at 6 PM.

MARCH 13TH

Shamrock Beer Crawl

5:30PM - 9:00PM

The Papillion Downtown Business Association is hosting The Shamrock Beer Crawl on March 13th from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM in downtown Papillion! Grab your friends, throw on something green, and crawl your way through downtown while enjoying beer samples, festive vibes, and local businesses all evening long. Get your tickets in advance at papilliondba.com/events.

MARCH 28TH

Easter Eggstravaganza at Halleck Park

Halleck Park | 1:00 PM

Celebrate spring at the Easter Eggstravaganza! Families are invited to enjoy an afternoon of Easter fun at Halleck Park, featuring egg hunts and festive activities in a welcoming outdoor setting. A great way for kids to celebrate the season and enjoy time together.

CLOGGED DRAIN?

MARCH 29TH

Seed Giveaway at

Papillion Public Library

Papillion Public Library | 1:00 PM

Get ready for gardening season at the Papillion Public Library’s Seed Giveaway! Hosted with the Papillion Butterfly Garden Committee, this event offers free seed packets for flowers, vegetables, and herbs. Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer questions and share planting tips. All are welcome.

MARCH 29TH

Vietnam Veterans Day Ceremony

Papillion Landing | 2:00 PM

The Nebraska Vietnam Veterans Memorial Foundation will host a Vietnam Veterans Day ceremony honoring those who served. A brief wreath-laying will follow at the Nebraska Vietnam Veterans Memorial site, weather permitting. Community members are invited to attend one or both ceremonies.

APRIL 4TH-5TH

Carly’s Easter Egg Hunt & Activities

Arbor Day Farm | 10:00 AM

Celebrate spring at Carly’s Easter Egg-Venture! Families can follow eggs and clues hidden throughout Tree Adventure, enjoy crafts and face painting, and take part in Easter scavenger hunts. Meet Carly the Cardinal and the Easter Bunny throughout the weekend. Bring a basket and join the fun. Included with Tree Adventure admission. Get your tickets at arbordayfarm.org/events