Steady Through the Season: Inside the Winter Issue of North Omaha First
The winter issue of North Omaha First celebrates the people, places, and persistence that keep North Omaha moving forward—even in the coldest months. From trailblazing leaders and hometown heroes to beloved institutions and vibrant arts organizations, this edition is a reminder that community strength is built by those who keep showing up.
From Pam Wiese’s transformative leadership at the Nebraska Humane Society, to NOMA’s mission to reignite the arts along North 24th Street, this issue shines a spotlight on impact in action. Readers will journey from North Omaha to late-night television with Amber Ruffin, meet kindergarten teacher Jackson Berning and the power of presence in the classroom, savor the story of Harold’s Koffee House and nearly 70 years of community at the table, and step into the spotlight with the Florentine Players and their century of storytelling. Together, these stories capture the persistence, creativity, and heart that define North Omaha—steady through the season and moving forward together.
Leaders First: Pam Wiese and the
Nebraska Humane Society → 
This feature spotlights Pam Wiese, president and CEO of the Nebraska Humane Society, and her compassionate, people-centered approach to animal welfare. Through innovative programs like pet food pantries and affordable care options, Wiese and her team work to keep pets with the families who love them—proving that meeting people where they are can change lives, both human and animal.
Nonprofits First: North Omaha Music & Arts (NOMA)
NOMA’s mission is to reignite the cultural legacy of North 24th Street through music, dance, and education. As the organization approaches its fifth year, this story highlights how NOMA is inspiring young people, building discipline through the arts, and creating a vision for North Omaha as a thriving hub of culture and creativity.
← People First: Amber Ruffin
The cover story follows North Omaha native Amber Ruffin on her journey from Omaha to late-night television. With humor, honesty, and unshakable optimism, Ruffin reflects on her career, her groundbreaking role in comedy, and how laughter can make even the hardest truths easier to face.
People First: Teacher Spotlight – Jackson Berning → 
This article honors Minne Lusa kindergarten teacher Jackson Berning, recipient of North Omaha First’s Teacher Spotlight. His story highlights the power of presence, care, and love in the classroom—and how educators shape futures by standing with their students through both joy and hardship.
← Food First: Harold’s Koffee House
A North Omaha institution since 1958, Harold’s Koffee House continues to serve comfort, connection, and community. This feature explores the diner’s deep neighborhood roots, its famously hand-prepared hash browns, and the people behind the counter who make Harold’s feel like home.
Arts First: The Florentine Players →
With nearly a century of storytelling behind them, the Florentine Players remain a cornerstone of community theater in Florence. This piece celebrates their melodramas, local productions, and inclusive spirit that invites generations of families to laugh, cheer, and take the stage together.