Good morning, Omaha.

Whispering Roots, one of Omaha’s largest food distribution sites, is struggling after losing $932,000 in government funding due to federal cuts and a SNAP pause—forcing the nonprofit to focus on delivering food packages to its most vulnerable clients.

The organization, which fed over 65,000 families in 2024, now has a waiting list as food demand rises.

Today, Omaha food banks saw a 20% increase in traffic as volunteers report growing need for food amid fears that SNAP benefits may soon decline.

Elected official Rep. Bacon is working to find bipartisan steps to avoid food rationing — one in ten residents depends heavily on SNAP.

Omaha residents facing food insecurity can visit 10 local sites, including pantries and churches, that offer free meals and food packages with varied hours.

Several food drives, such as those by Cub Scout Pack and Lisa's Radial Cafe, will accept non-perishable items starting November 2 — helping both those in need and community donors support local efforts.

Amid the government shutdown, the Omaha Fire Department and nearby Bellevue, Papillion, and La Vista fire departments worked with retired Air Force veteran Chris Obermeyer to donate food, baby products and gift cards to military families who rely on the Airman’s Attic food pantry.

The donation reached about 540 families and eased the strain on those facing uncertain pay—showing strong local support during challenging times.

Danny Dessie of Danny’s Corner Store at 33rd and California is worried as uncertain SNAP benefits amid the government shutdown have left his customers with fewer options for staple groceries.

He said reduced orders for milk and bread signal potential hardship for his working-class neighborhood, and he awaits federal action to restore usual supplies.

Hydes Slydes, a local burger and fries restaurant that grew from a food truck into two stores, will be featured on the YouTube show America’s Best Restaurants in February.

The episode will focus on its 16859 Q Street location & note that it also operates at The Grover Inn near 42nd & Grover.

Westside Community Schools is starting a weekend meal distribution program to help 500 families affected by a SNAP benefit pause that began Wednesday.

The district said meals will be ready on Friday for pick-up and served on Saturday and Sunday as a bridge until school meals resume — the program will launch next Friday, November 7th.

Nebraska extended head coach Matt Rhule’s contract through the 2032 season—his base salary stayed the same while his pay will increase with College Football Playoff appearances, and officials said the deal shows strong confidence in his leadership.

Union Omaha announced today that it will play its 2026 USL League One matches at Creighton University’s Morrison Stadium—after six seasons at Werner Park, the team will host games downtown and work on plans for a permanent home.

Season ticket renewals began yesterday, and new tickets go on sale on Nov. 13 with further details coming soon.

Brincos Dieras Comedy Show

8-11 p.m. — Orpheum Theater — Tickets available — Experience the zany humor of renowned clown and comedian Brincos Dieras.

Soulful Sounds in Omaha

6-8 p.m. — The Omar — $30 — Experience a vintage-inspired evening of music and comedy with a modern twist from Acute Inflections.

Willow Avalon Concert

7-10 p.m. — The Waiting Room Lounge — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of soulful music with Willow Avalon, a talent from rural Georgia inspired by gospel and country.

Talib Kweli Live

8-9:30 p.m. — The Waiting Room Lounge — Ticket prices vary — Experience the lyrical brilliance of one of Hip Hop's most insightful artists.

Joshua Radin Concert

7:30-9:30 p.m. — The Waiting Room Lounge — VIP packages available — Experience an intimate evening with singer-songwriter Joshua Radin featuring a pre-show event and Q&A.

North Dakota Fighting Hawks vs. Nebraska Omaha Mavericks Hockey

4:59-7:59 p.m. — Baxter Arena — Ticket prices vary — Witness a thrilling college hockey matchup between the Fighting Hawks and Mavericks.

The Movement Live Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Slowdown — Ticket prices vary — Catch The Movement as they bring their alternative-reggae vibes and new album 'Visions' to Omaha.

Matched Speed Dating Event - Omaha

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Corkscrew Wine & Cheese — $40 ($10 for members) — Engage in fun mini-dates and meet new singles while enjoying a cozy atmosphere.

Prairie Python Meetup

5:30-7 p.m. — Improving — Free entry — Connect with fellow Python enthusiasts and explore coding solutions together.

Ariel Pink Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — The Waiting Room Lounge — Ticket information available — Experience an evening of pop music with Ariel Pink at a beloved local venue.