Good morning, Omaha.

Food assistance organizations in Omaha experienced record demand during summer break as free school meals ended; the Salvation Army served over 2,500 meals from June 1 through June 16 (a 70% rise from last year) while Heartland Hope Mission noted increased need for dinner options.

Local Omaha offers multiple events this weekend, June 19 through 21, including live music+art exhibits, family festivals, sports at Charles Schwab Field, and theater performances at local venues.

Residents can check local listings for times and ticket details.

A planned nonprofit grocery store will break ground this fall near 25th & Lake Streets to serve North Omaha with affordable fresh food, health services and up to 40 jobs.

Community members say the project will spark local renewal of the neighborhood’s historic corridor.

The Omaha Community Playhouse is staging Mary Poppins with Lauren Krupski and Erik Nordstrom performing as the practically perfect nanny and her chimney sweep on Hawks Mainstage Theatre until June 28.

Many audience members have given standing ovations as they enjoy classic songs and breathtaking flying scenes.

Elkhorn Community Theatre is staging 'Legally Blonde' (featuring cast members Noelani Howland and Amayah Rice) as part of an upcoming local production that aims to bring new energy to community audiences.

Nebraska set a new record as 52 students earned perfect ACT scores this year, with eight from Lincoln.

About 150 ninth-grade students from Senshu University Matsudo visited Nebraska this week as part of a 20-year partnership with Doane University and UNL.

They attended classes and toured local sites (the zoo and state Capitol) while learning new skills.

Dr. Dele Davies (who served as interim chancellor since 2024) was named UNMC’s ninth chancellor by the Nebraska Board of Regents on Thursday; he will officially take office July 1 as the university prepares for a major expansion with the planned acquisition of Nebraska Medicine.

The University of Nebraska is negotiating to make the Omaha Community Foundation an equal partner in Nebraska Medicine, with two foundation appointees joining the board from July 1 through at least Oct.

1 and NU President Jeffrey Gold leading the discussions (negotiations are ongoing).

Ben Folds Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — Holland Center — Tickets available — Experience the genre-bending music of Emmy-nominated singer-songwriter Ben Folds.

Disney's Mary Poppins - Musical

2-6 p.m. — Omaha Community Playhouse — Ticket packages available — Experience the magical world of Mary Poppins with VIP access and premium seating.

North Fork Crossing

8-11 p.m. — Slowdown — Tickets from $48 — Experience an unforgettable live show at The Slowdown in Omaha.

Final Fridays @ the Conservatory

12-1 p.m. — Omaha Conservatory of Music — Complimentary coffee — End your month on a high note with an enriching musical performance and great company.

Strawberry Fest

9 a.m. – 9 p.m. — Nelson Produce Farm — Enjoy family fun and a vibrant fireworks show.

"Weird Al" Yankovic Live Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Baxter Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience a full-production multimedia comedy rock show featuring hits and fan favorites from the world's top-selling comedy recording artist.

Whiskey River Concert

8-11 p.m. — The Waiting Room Lounge — $10 ADV / $15 DOS — Enjoy an evening of great music in a lively local venue.

Movie Storm

7-8:30 p.m. — The Backline Comedy Theatre — Free for Backline students/alumni — Enjoy playful improv acts with Tornado Warning and BCU creating spontaneous stories to lift your spirits.

Derek Hough Performance

7-10 p.m. — Orpheum Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience an evening of dance and music with Derek Hough, complete with VIP packages and a preshow Happy Hour.

The Mezcal Brothers Farewell Show

6-11 p.m. — The Waiting Room Lounge — $20 — Celebrate the legacy of The Mezcal Brothers with their final performance and the release of their last album.