Good morning, Omaha.

Hercules, a 12-year-old Boxer mix, is available for adoption at Nebraska Humane Society in Omaha today.

The shelter offers a $25 fee for dogs over 25 lb, and the well-trained pup is eager to join a caring home.

Ralston's Independence Day Celebration (66th annual event) kicks off today with community gatherings and remarks from Mayor Groesser and Susi Franco.

Locals can enjoy parades, family fun, and live music to mark the Fourth of July.

For 50 years, Volunteers Assisting Seniors has helped Omaha seniors save millions by offering free help with Medicare enrollment and prescription drug plans, and it continues supporting local older adults today.

Lee Enterprises chairman David Hoffmann announced he is investing millions to preserve local newspapers because he believes community journalism is essential.

His planned investment will help secure the future of these publications for local readers.

David Hoffmann built an executive search firm that underpins his diversified family business, now spanning 100+ companies and including investments in local newspapers.

His business journey demonstrates a longstanding dedication to community media growth.

Red Door Woodfire Grill opened its seventh location in Aksarben Village on June 2, serving wood-fired steaks, burgers and popular pretzel bites.

The restaurant is planning a new site in Gretna for February 2027 and is exploring another location in Omaha.

Chipotle Mexican Grill and 7 Brew Coffee are developing a site at the northwest corner of 72nd & P Street near Liberty First Credit Union Arena in Ralston; Chipotle is expected to open in late 2026 or early 2027, and no opening date has been set for 7 Brew Coffee.

John-Paul Gurnett discussed how Benson First Fridays showcases local artists and businesses every first Friday in the neighborhood, inviting community members to experience creative displays and local flavor.

The ongoing event highlights the vibrant cultural scene in the area.

Emmy award winning dancer Derek Hough will present Symphony of Dance: ENCORE at the Orpheum Theater on July 8.

The family friendly show features live music, dance routines with Latin, big band, and rock influences, and interactive judging (with one audience volunteer), while honoring special milestones for Hough and his family.

The Omaha Symphony & The RiverFront team will host the downtown Fourth of July Symphony Celebration today, featuring live music and festivities that bring the community together.

Local residents can look forward to enjoying the event in a festive downtown setting.

Prairie Hill Farm Area Development Authority and Nebraska Defense Research Corporation signed a letter of intent to clear the way for the REACH Collaboration & Innovation Hub in Bellevue.

Site grading begins soon with a groundbreaking in early 2027 that will generate 150 jobs and support a university workforce initiative.

Omaha's new Flower Child restaurant offers fresh dishes for local food lovers.

Maria Cade from First Alert 6 visited to explore its healthy menu (featuring vibrant salads and bowls) and welcoming ambiance.

A study by Elevate Leadership ranked Omaha as the nation’s least stressed city among 100 large cities for 2026 by analyzing factors like unemployment, commute times, income, housing affordability, childcare costs, divorce rates, healthcare access (and crime).

The top five include Lincoln, Madison, Chandler and Arlington.

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.

Bouncing Souls Concert with The Suicide Machines

7:00 – 8:30 p.m. — Slowdown — Tickets available via Ticketmaster — Enjoy an energetic night featuring two iconic punk bands.

Blade 5K Run and 1 Mile Walk

5K and 1 Mile options — College of St. Mary campus — Cost not specified — Participate in a scenic run through Omaha with options for all ages.

Jeff Rosenstock with Good Luck

7:00-9:30 p.m. — Slowdown — Tickets available — Experience an indie rock night with Jeff Rosenstock and Good Luck.

Arsenal FC Soccer Camp

8 a.m. - 2 p.m. — Omaha Sports Complex — Registration required — Enhance your soccer skills with training from Arsenal coaches at this official camp.

ON Brand 2026 Conference

8 AM - 3:30 PM — Mike & Josie Harper Center — $175 Professional Registration — Engage in workshops and keynotes exploring the latest branding trends and community storytelling.

Backline's Best

7-8:30 p.m. — The Backline Comedy Theatre — Free for students and alumni — Enjoy Omaha's finest improv acts with a rotating lineup every month.

Omaha Girls Rock Amplify Showcase

1-7 p.m. — The Waiting Room Lounge — Celebrate the talent of youth bands as they perform original songs after a week of music-making.

The Black Keys Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — The Astro — Cost info unavailable — Experience the electrifying blues-rock sounds of Grammy-winning duo The Black Keys with fan-favorite hits.