Morning
Omaha
Friday, December 19th, 2025
Good morning, Omaha. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 19th of December.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ A Council Bluffs animal rescue said its average cat care cost jumped from $200 last year to $350 now; the non-profit caring for about 100 cats (including a kitten nicknamed Bobblehead Betty) has paused most intakes to manage rising expenses. KETV
- ➤ The Omaha metro offers a mix of local activities this weekend with festive skating at Heartwood Preserve, a Hanukkah celebration at the Children’s Museum, and holiday lights at Henry Doorly Zoo, all running from Friday through Sunday. WOWT
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Two rail unions representing more than half of the workers oppose the $85B merger of Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern — they worry it will cut safety, cost jobs, and raise shipping and consumer prices, and they will announce their decision Wednesday as the deal awaits review. Omaha World-Herald
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Ollie the Trolley has been a local icon since 1985 and is celebrating its 40th anniversary. KMTV's Zach Williamson joined owners Deb Skinner and George Davis on a tour as they offer public rides that support local small businesses amid streetcar construction. 3 News Now
- ➤ Omaha’s Joslyn Art Museum was honored at the Prix Versailles global architecture awards for its innovative design. The recognition highlights the museum’s impact on the region’s art scene. Omaha World-Herald
- ➤ Food writer Sarah Baker Hansen (after visiting 11 steakhouses) released her final ranking of Omaha steakhouses in 2025. She picked Brother Sebastian’s for best filet, Committee Chophouse for best ribeye, and Johnny’s Cafe for standout onion rings. Flatwater Free Press
- ➤ The Joslyn Art Museum was named a World Title recipient in the Prix Versailles 2025 when it won the Special Prize for an Exterior for its 2024 Rhonda & Howard Hawks Pavilion expansion. It is one of only four U.S. winners among 72 entries recognized for outstanding design. Grow Omaha
- ➤ Thousands of holiday lights brighten an Omaha home near Minne Lusa Boulevard and Whitmore Street, featuring red+green+blue bulbs, a giant teddy bear and a jolly figure in red. KETV features the display as part of its 12 Days of Christmas series running from Dec. 14 through Christmas Day. KETV
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Metro Community College’s cybersecurity associate degree program ranked No. 16 nationally, validating its hands-on training and affordable tuition of about $5,000 while preparing local students for high-demand cybersecurity careers. KETV
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Salad dressings sold at Costco and other retailers were recalled on Nov. 11 by the FDA after plastic pieces were found in granulated onions used in these items; Nebraska customers with recalled products should return them to Costco for a refund. WOWT
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ The Avenue One Development near 192nd and West Dodge Road has announced its first tenants, with Arhaus, West Elm, Williams Sonoma, and Pottery Barn set to move in. The mixed-use project has leased or negotiated 75% of its phase one retail spaces (with more brands and dining options to come). KETV
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ On Nov. 1 at Memorial Stadium, Ray Sandoval led the fireworks crew that created a show featuring over 390 cues and, for the first time, field launches during the Nebraska USC game. The team, made up of lifelong Huskers fans, prepared hours in advance for every game. Nebraska News Service
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Christmas at Zen West
9 AM – 12 PM — Zen Coffee Company West — Exclusive drinks and cookies available — Meet Santa while enjoying festive cocoa and cookie flights.
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Omaha Street Dog Coalition Clinic
10-11 a.m. — Timberlake Outreach Center — Free service — Monthly veterinary care for pets of people experiencing homelessness.
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Dark Holiday 2025 with Moon Pigeons
8:00-9:30 p.m. — The Waiting Room Lounge — Ticket pricing varies — Experience an electrifying evening with Moon Pigeons during the Dark Holiday 2025 concert.
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Cards Of Destiny
8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Backline Comedy Theatre — Voluntary audience participation — Enjoy a fast-paced improv competition featuring local comedians and chances for audience involvement.
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Josh Hoyer’s Colossal 4 + Gleam Concert
8 p.m. — The B. Bar — Tickets available — Experience an electrifying night of authentic music from Josh Hoyer & Soul Colossal.
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The Princess Bride Screening
7-11 p.m. — Holland Center — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a special screening of the iconic film with Cary Elwes in attendance to share behind-the-scenes stories.
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Dive Bar Karaoke Night
7-9 p.m. — Beach House Bar & Grill — Free entry for members, $20 for guests — Sing your heart out at one of Omaha's favorite dive bars amidst a friendly crowd.
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Fountains of Dane Concert
8-9:30 p.m. — The Waiting Room Lounge — $10 ADV / $15 DOS — Enjoy 90's power pop and rock hits resurrected live in a vibrant setting.
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North Dakota State Bison vs. Omaha Mavericks Mens Basketball
1-3 p.m. — Baxter Arena — Check ticket pricing for entry — Experience an exciting college basketball showdown featuring local teams.
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Breakfast Club - Ripple Intent
8:00-9:30 a.m. — MCL Construction — Register online — Explore how self-awareness and practice can drive positive change in our lives.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.
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